Road rash (abrasions)

[JJR87]

I was recently in an auto accident and suffered multiple abrasions on my right palm and along my forearm to my elbow; the first two layers of the skin, dermis & epidermis, have been scraped off.

It's been nearly a week now and I've been applying Neosporin and aloe vera and occasionally cleaning with soap and water (as well as gauze pads and cloth wrap). However, there appears to be an off-white film (looks like moist, pale flesh) in various spots and a portion of it peels off when removing the gauze dreasings.

Is this in fact newly developing skin? Also, what can I do to minimize scarring? Any additional tips?

I'd appreciate any helpful insight/advice. Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The peeling skin is due to the granulation tissue formed when healing of wound starts. Since it is being scraped off when you remove the gauze, so it is better to get it examined from your doctor as just applying Neosporin and keeping it uncovered without any gauze will help in better healing. If there is any redness, warmth or pus discharge from the area then get a course of oral antibiotics from your doctor.

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.

[Raju Thapar, MBBS]

Hi,
thanks for query.
This is normal.Do not apply gauze directly, do dressing with Vaseline gauze, that will not stick with the skin and help in making the skin smooth. At times in case of superficial abrasions no dressing is required.In case when large areas are involved you may need oral antibiotics and analgesics also that will help in faster recovery.

Wishing you good health.