spots taking over my body!

[Ally1203]

I posted the topic Psoriasis because it's the closest thing I can come up with. What started as a few spots on my chest has grown to cover my chest shoulders and back, with spots down the middle of my belly and around the groin and inside my elbows. I seem to break out with more when I am stressed and they stick around for what at least seems like years.  They are incredibly itchy, flaky, and sometimes a little scaly... My doctor thought it was eczema and put my prednisone which had very uncomfortable side effects and did nothing for my skin.  I haven't gone back to my doctor because I've been busy day in and day out with kids and school, and honestly I'm not convinced that it can be helped.  I'm lost. please help..

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be pityriasis rosea or eczema. Pityriasis rosea is a common human skin disease which presents as numerous patches of pink or red oval rash. The rash may be accompanied by low-grade headache, fever, nausea and fatigue and itching. Topical and oral steroids are needed. Water, sweat, and soap may cause irritation and should be avoided in the disease. Topical zinc oxide and calamine lotion are useful for pruritus.
Please take a second opinion from a dermatologist if the symptoms persist.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[maatson]

Mostly Pityriasis Rosea, from your descriptions. Should settle in a week or two. Do consult your doc.