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Recurrent itchy rash

About 9 years ago I developed an very , very itchy, small macular red rash in both my arm pits.Initially it was about 1" wide and 2" long. This became a rash that reoccurred every 4-6 months but each time it did the involved area was bigger. I have seen both dermatologists and allergists, have had skin scapings done etc and no one knows what it could be. At this point I still get it every 4-6 months andhave not been able to connect it with any change in soaps, detergents etc, I have it again now and it is about 8" long now from my arm pits down my side, and about 6 inches wide. each time I get it it gets bigger and the itch is always very very severe. I have had to take Prednisone in recent years over a week's taper to get rid of this rash. Any ideas??? I find it very frustrating that the specialists I've been to are clueless.
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Avatar universal
Thank you so much for your reply. I have already seen both sermatologists and allergists and no one can identify this. It has gotton so bad that it no longer responds to topical steroids and I generally end up on a week of oral steroids. The itching is severe. The rash red, small papules. I never thought of eczema before but this ounds like a possibility due to the recurent nature of the rash. It is always in the same place but gradually, each time, the area effected grows larger. Always starts under the arm and spread downward and outward. I have an outbreak now. I will try some of the suggestions about cleansers/moisturizers and let you know. The rest of the things I have already tried and still do, Thanks...Peggy C.
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563773 tn?1374246539
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hello,
If it is itchy then possibility of jock itch or intertrigo is there but since it is reoccurring every year then eczema can be a possibility. Avoid using any lotions and creams for the meantime. Use a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Also use cotton clothes and change the clothes twice if there is any increased sweating. Try keeping the skin free of sweat as far as possible. If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort. For the itching antihistaminics like Benadryl or Claritin can be taken. Also consult a dermatologist and discuss this possibility with him.

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.

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