Brief Answer:
"Lichen simplex chronicus" or simply Lsch: Do not touch or scratch the area

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Welcome and thanks for posting your query to the forum.

I can understand your concern for the patches on your arm. After analyzing the pictures and correlating with the symptoms I can make out that you have the condition known as "Lichen simplex chronicus" or simply Lsch.

To tell you simply about this condition: This condition is characterized by small scaly Plaques (raised spot ) which are typically dry and brownish color present on areas accessible to itching. It is found at particular places where there is friction and therefore it causes an urge to itch.

You can see that in your case it is present at arm region which is more accessible for itching.

This is not a disease in itself but occurs due to continuous scratching of the area. In fact it is the mechanism of the body to become bit thickened at certain places for protection.

There is typically a cycle of itch- scratch - itch. This is more frequent when you are free.

For the treatment part potent steroid is to be applied along with round the clock antihistamine ( medicines to prevent itch) under medical supervision. It is then tapered by mild steroids application. You can get the details of the medicine by a dermatologist.

In my patients I prefer to start with medium potency steroid cream such as Mometasone cream for 7 days and then shift it to lower potency steroid such as Fluticasone cream or Hydrocortisone cream for next 7 days and then stop it.

I maintain the effect with simple paraffin gelly applied for 10-15 times a day. The most important policy to get complete remission is by "no scratching and no touching of the area".

I hope these information's will help you. If you have further queries I will be happy to help.

"Wish you good health"

Regards,
Dr Sanjay Kumar Kanodia
MD (Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Diseases)

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Brief Answer:
"Lichen simplex chronicus". Wear full sleeves cotton clothes.

Detailed Answer:
Hello young fellow,

Welcome back and thanks a lot for your swift follow up. I am happy to know that you understood the simple medical facts regarding your skin condition.

It is really nice to hear that you are not scratching the area other wise it could cause more aggravation of the condition. Just try to avoid any chance of friction over the affected area.

There area further of the suggestion which you can follow:

- Keep yourself away from hot and humid climate.

- Take daily bath.

- Wear full sleeves cotton clothes to be changed two times a day. Do not wear any synthetic or tight garments.

-Don't try to scratch or rub the area as can lead to further aggravation of the problem.

- Reduce your weight if it is on higher side.

I hope this information will help you. If you have further queries I will be happy to help or if not then can close the query and give ratings to the discussion.

"Wish you good health and happy new year"

Regards,
Dr Sanjay Kumar Kanodia
MD (Dermatology & Sexually transmitted diseases)

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