[37F] With recurrent red patches, burning, and peeling skin

Patient Description

A 37-year-old female has been experiencing recurrent red patches on her skin for almost two years. These patches appear intermittently on various parts of her body, including her face, arms, inner legs, and breasts. The red patches are associated with intense burning, soreness, and subsequent peeling. The patient reports flare-ups lasting about 2 to 3 weeks at a time, with the soreness rated as 8 out of 10 in severity. No specific triggers such as foods, chemicals, or environmental factors have been identified. The patient has found some relief using a steroid cream that starts with a 'T,' although it hasn't been used for about a year. There are no accompanying symptoms like fever, chills, joint pain, stiffness, or changes in the nails. The patient has no known allergies, is not currently taking any medications, over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal remedies, and has no significant past medical history.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible conditions that could explain your symptoms:

  • Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches that can be itchy or painful. It often appears on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back but can occur anywhere on the body. The burning sensation and peeling you describe could be consistent with this condition.

    • Treatment: Psoriasis is often treated with topical treatments like corticosteroids (which you mentioned), vitamin D analogues, and moisturizers. In more severe cases, phototherapy or systemic medications may be needed.
  • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This is another chronic skin condition that causes red, inflamed, and itchy skin. It can appear anywhere on the body and often comes and goes in flare-ups.

    • Treatment: Eczema is typically managed with moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, and avoiding known triggers. In some cases, antihistamines or other medications may be prescribed.
  • Contact Dermatitis: This condition occurs when the skin reacts to a substance it has come into contact with, causing redness, burning, and peeling. It can be caused by allergens or irritants.

    • Treatment: Identifying and avoiding the triggering substance is key. Topical corticosteroids and moisturizers can help manage symptoms.
  • Lichen Planus: This is an inflammatory condition that can cause red, itchy, and sometimes painful patches on the skin. It can also cause peeling.

    • Treatment: Treatment often involves topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and sometimes systemic medications.

What you can do

  1. Moisturize Regularly: Keeping your skin well-moisturized can help reduce dryness and peeling. Look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products.
  2. Avoid Known Triggers: If you can identify any substances that seem to trigger your flare-ups, try to avoid them.
  3. Use Over-the-Counter Treatments: You can use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to help reduce inflammation and itching. However, consult your doctor before using any new treatments.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
  5. Cool Compresses: Applying cool, damp cloths to the affected areas can help soothe burning and itching.

What you should look out for

  • Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms worsen or do not improve with over-the-counter treatments, you should see a healthcare provider.
  • Signs of Infection: If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus, seek medical attention promptly.
  • New Symptoms: If you develop new symptoms, such as fever, joint pain, or changes in your nails, consult a healthcare provider.

Remember, while this information can be helpful, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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5 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of psoriasis?

Common symptoms of psoriasis include red, scaly patches on the skin that can be itchy or painful. These patches often appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back but can occur anywhere on the body.


How can eczema be managed effectively?

Eczema can be managed by regularly moisturizing the skin, using topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, avoiding known triggers, and sometimes using antihistamines or other medications as prescribed by a doctor.


What is contact dermatitis and how is it treated?

Contact dermatitis is a skin reaction to a substance that causes redness, burning, and peeling. It can be caused by allergens or irritants. Treatment involves identifying and avoiding the triggering substance, and using topical corticosteroids and moisturizers to manage symptoms.


What should I do if my skin condition worsens or I notice signs of infection?

If your skin condition worsens or you notice signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus, you should seek medical attention promptly. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.

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