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What Causes Recurring Itchy Patch On The Lower Leg?

Posted on Mon, 17 Oct 2016

Question: For the last couple of years, I have had a recurring itchy patch on the shin of my right calf. If I scratch it, the area turns purplish-red and bumpy. It is also very warm to the touch in comparison with the rest of my leg. Last year it happened towards the last half of winter. It went away as I spent more time outside and in the sun. It came back a couple of weeks ago. I actually had this happen several years ago, but it was so severe I went to a dermatologist who was unable to diagnose it but we tried several salves and I'm not sure which one helped but it too, eventually went away during warmer weather. It's been at least two years between the first occurrence and now these last two occurrences.

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

Brief Answer:
Looks like eczema, topical steroids, antihistaminic & moisturising cream

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for being at healthcaremagic
I am Dr Asmeet Kaur Sawhney, a dermatologist.
I have gone through your complaints as well as reviewed the attached photograph.
According to me it looks like an eczematous patch.
You should keep your leg as much moisturised as possible as it will avoid recurrences.
If I was your treating doctor I would recommend you to apply potent topical steroid like clobetasol propionate cream or betamethasone cream on this patch twice daily for 2 weeks along with frequent and liberal application of a good moisturising cream containing white soft paraffin on the entire leg.
Besides this take antihistaminic like tablet Cetrizine 10 mg once or twice daily depending on the intensity of itching.
Steroidal preparations are prescription drugs and you need to see the doctor in person to get them.
Moreover avoid using harsh soaps and don't use hot water for bathing and instead use lukewarm water.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (9 hours later)

Excellent advice Dr. Sawhney. Thank you for your recommendations. I will follow up and look forward to being itch free soon!

Best,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Welcome!!

Detailed Answer:
Welcome!!
All the best!!

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. Vaishalee Punj