rash on arm

[entegra]

Hello, for a few months now a rash has been developing on my arm.  At first i thought that it would eventually go away on its own, but instead it seems to be steadily growing (although at a slow pace).  It consists of small bumps that are the same color as my skin, and grows in little patches.  At first I thought I might be developing a ringworm, but it isn't raised like one.  It also isn't itchy unless I'm out in the sun and sweating a lot.  Then it seems a bit agitated.  Any ideas on what it could be?

Here is a photo of it.  

[entegra]

Thanks for the advice!  I tried something over-the-counter, but its hard to read all the ingredients since they're in Japanese.  From what I can understand the ointment I bought has acetic acid, and isopropyl methyl phenol in it.  I started applying it and over the course of a week the rash has cleared!  I'm really relieved.  Thanks again for the help :)

[BhumikaMD]

It could be eczema, sweat dermatitis, allergic reactions or bacterial/fungal infection.

You need to wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites.

Apply calamine lotion at the site of the lesions and see if it helps. You could take some oral antihistamine medications like cetrizine or loratadine. You need to maintain a good personal hygiene .

Anti-itch drugs, often antihistamine, may reduce the itch during a flare up of eczema, and the reduced scratching in turn reduces damage and irritation to the skin.

For mild-moderate eczema a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone or desonide), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).

Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Moisturizing is one of the most important self-care treatments for sufferers of eczema. Keeping the affected area moistened can promote skin healing and relief of symptoms.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eczema

Let us know if you need any further information.

It would be advisable to consult a skin specialist for your symptoms and a proper clinical examination.

Let us know if you need any other information and post us on how you are doing.

Regards.