Skin Questions

[AHutch]

I have developed brown, leathery spots on the middle knuckels of both of my hands. Recently it has begun to develope on the index knuckles and this week they became red and painful as though I had scraped or chaffed them?
What is this?
I have been treating them with a Burt's Bees Rescue balm which is soothing the red and soreness, however the leathery ovals remain.
Thanks

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
These spots on the knuckles can be due to contact dermatitis, dermatomyositis or lichen planus. Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that causes a rash of purplish-red flat-topped bumps that are often very itchy. You should get these rashes evaluated from a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.

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.

[AHutch]

I uploaded a photo of the knuckles of my left hand; where the spots have been the longest.
Sorry I don't know how to add the photo to my original question.
Please check my photos to reference the picture.
Thank you,
Andrea