rash/pustules/????

[jvr26]

I have a "rash" that started a few years ago, in the summer of 2002, in my mid-twenties. I got pustules on the dorsal part of my hands. It itched slightly, when I scratched them some popped and were filled with clear fluid. Since then every summer I get these bumps. I just got them a few days ago (May 22 2008). It hasn't spread usually it remains on my hands. I saw an allergist who wasn't able to pinpoint anything. I also saw a dermatologist who said it was "acne" but putting tons of zit cream doesn't take care of it. One thing I noticed was when I was pregnant (2x's) I didn't develop the rash. Does someone have any idea what this might be?????

[shellesooner]

I also get these bumps and all my life have gotten them but only one or two here and there. This past febuary the bumps seem to spread and were also on my arms, trunk and lower extremities. all of this time i thought they were not contagious and since i had this "outbreak" two different guys i have dated and developed these bumps. so far the only help i have been able to get is topical antifungal. oral steroids and antibiotics have not helped. the only contributing trigger is stress. the bumps have since decreased but still develop news ones weekly, only now they are back to one at a time. any help would be greatly appreciated.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Nothing can be said with surety without having a look at the lesions and a clinical examination.

This could be folliculitis, acne, pimples, fordyce spots or present normally.

Do you have any other associated symptoms?

Does calamine lotion help with your symptoms?

Let us know about what your doctor advises and post us about any other doubts that you might have.

Regards.

[jvr26]

Hi thanks for your reply,
I can't think of anything that is triggering except that its been happening every year now since 2002. I haven't changed any of my habits or products I use. I tried attaching a pic but it didn't show up yet--it takes 24 hours. It only itches a bit when it first shows up and then it doesn't really itch at all. Its a skin colored pustule that is round in shape and has clear fluid. I noticed a few on the dorsal parts of my feet too. I just switched to a different dermatologist, I'm hoping she can help me. The rash just returned this past Friday so I haven't had a chance to make an appointment yet.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

This could be allergic reactions to unknown substances, skin hypersensitivity, eczema, dermatitis .

You should not scratch or pick at the lesions as this would cause secondary bacterial infection.

Do you notice the lesions trigerred in response to a specific stimulus? Try to avoid substances that you have have shown allergic reactions to.

Apply calamine lotion at the site and take some oral antihistamine medications for your symptoms.  

If the symptoms are still persistent, consult a dermatologist and get a proper clinical evaluation done.  

Let us know if you have any doubts and keep us posted on how you are doing.

Good luck.