Skin Problem

[jerseymom401]

My son has developed a rash on his body. Specifically small red bumps underneath the skin. It started as a reaction to the strep throat but now its been over a month and the skin rash gets worse. He's also developed 4 blisters on the back of his calf that he says hurt and itch. He scratches from head to toe and can not find relief in any of the meds he's on (zyrtec, locoid). I don't believe it is eczema could you tell me what other possible skin problem he might have?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms viral and bacterial rashes need to be ruled out. Since it is blisters, so viral infection like herpes are more likely a possibility for which I suggest you to get an evaluation done from a dermatologist.

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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[meniere135]

The blistery rash on the back of his calf that is itchy might be dermatitis herpetiformis - but you'd have to check with a dermatologist for a diagnosis.  The rash you described sounds like the one my brother had.  It turns out he had celiac disease - which is an autoimmune reaction to gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, rye and oats.  He followed the diet for almost 2 years before the rash went away.  But if it is derma. herpet. then he definitely has celiac disease.  But I don't want to jump ahead here.  It could be something else for sure.  Skin rashes are tough to diagnose sometimes.  No one on here will be able to diagnose the rash.  The doctor really needs to see that kind of thing.  I hope this helps.