Suggest Treatment For Hardened Skin Like Scales On My Left Leg, Ankle And Knee

Posted on Tue, 11 Sep 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 Answered on

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, I have this skin condition on my left leg between ankle and knee and also on ankle where the skin seems to have been hardened like scales. It has been there for last 4 years. Although it doesn't itch or cause discomfort, it doesn't looks good. I have been 2-3 dermatologists during this time. They prescribed meds from salicylic acid to steroids but it hasn't improved. Please find attached images and suggest.

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Lichen simplex chronicus, topical and intralesional steroids

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

It seems to be lichen simplex chronicus which is a chronic form of eczema. If I was your treating doctor I would recommend you to apply topical steroid like Clobetasol propionate cream on the affected areas twice daily for 2-3 weeks along with application of a moisturizing lotion on the entire leg.

Steroidal preparations are prescription drugs and should be taken under the supervision of the doctor. This will help in improve the condition. For better results you can continue a dermatologist and go for intralesional steroid injections. 2-3 sessions will be required at an interval of 2-3 weeks. This will cause faster clearing of the lesions.

I hope to have answered your query and would be happy to answer any further queries.

Regards,
Dr. Asmeet

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T