Red Itchy Spots

[sushilsub]

I got a couple of red spots on my had. They were really itchy, and when I scratched them, they started bleeding like small pricks of blood, after which they stop itching. The spots appear all over the body, but disappear after a few days. Coul you kindly help me? Is this an allergy to some kind.

P.S.: I recently moved into the US from India. Is it probably due to a weather change?

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

This may be case of irritant dermatitis or even contact dermatitis. This skin condition usually affects the lower extremities and may present after direct contact with certain triggers like chemical in soaps or detergents. A change in environment may also trigger this as in your case wherein the dry weather may lead to xerosis or irritation of the lower extremities.

I suggest you try applying vitamin E cream over the area to prevent any dryness. I also suggest that you try to note any changes in urine character from yellow to dark brown ,any gum bleeding or spread of these spots to other parts of the body.

[sushilsub]

Thanks for the comments. However, the spots are highly isolated and are very very small (not patches). They occur more in the arms and legs, and not much on the torso or the back.

I will be grateful for further help.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

These red spots in your hand may be a case of dermatitis. Irritant or xerotic dermatitis is a likely differential especially when the extremities are involved. Do you frequently wash your hands? Have you recently changed your brand of soap?

This may not be something urgent. However, you have noted that similar skin condition has appeared in other parts of the body. I suggest that you have this assessed by your doctor. Generalized rash may be an allergic reaction, a nummular eczema or a psoriatic skin condition.