leg rash

[ferrchr123]

I was diagnosed with eczema but the treatment does not help.  I develop itchy, dry rashes mainly on the inner thighs with patches on the forehead.  Eventually these rashes get dry and scaly and won't stop peeling and when they heal there is a lack of pigment in the area which lasts for months.  I was recently in India and treated with medtronidazole for a parasite which cleared up the rashes for about 6 months but now it is back worse than ever.  Any ideas?

[RJ233]

You can check this site to see if you can find anything on it:
mayoclinic.com      Hope this helps you. RJ

[Dr_Smita_S]

Hi
Generally topical corticosteroids are used for treatment of eczema. However, whenthere is no relief, sometimes the doctor may consider prescribing more potent corticosteroids for a short duration in adults with chronic eczema. Newer two topical eczema drugs like pimecrolimus (Elidel Cream) and tacrolimus (Protopic Ointment) are reserved only for cases where corticosteroids have not been effective.
Sometimes oral corticosteroids and immunosuppressants like cyclosporine and phototherapy are used for resistant cases. Your doctor may prescribe some sedative-antihistaminics to reduce itching. You may discuss about these treatment options with your doctor. Besides you should take certain measures like avoiding trigger agents, keep the skin hydrated by regularly using.
Do write in after your doctor’s consultation.
Take care

[ferrchr123]

I've already been to several doctors and they have prescribed the corticosteroids but it left my skin missing patches of pigment.  I can't take immunosuppressants---I recently contracted a parasite from a foreign country and am still recovering and for some reason my dr won't try the topical eczema drugs you have mentioned.  I put on lotion 3 times a day.