What Causes Red Blotches On The Arm?

Posted on Mon, 5 Jun 2017

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

Mon, 5 Jun 2017 Answered on

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have noticed the following blotches on my arm and wondering what they could be?

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Answer few questions

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for being at HealthcareMagic
I have reviewed the attached photographs though they are not very clear.
If possible upload clearer pictures of the affected areas.
Also I need to ask you few questions:
Are the lesions itchy, associated with pain or burning?
What is the duration of these blotches?
Are they raised or flat?
Do you have any history of trauma to the area?
Have you used or applied anything new on the arms?
Kindly revert with the answers.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (15 minutes later)

I hope these are clearer. I don't have any pain but I noticed them earlier today.. I also haven't had any trauma in the area. I also have tried putting anything on the areas.

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

Brief Answer:
Either ecchymotic patches/discoid eczema, cortisone cream and moisturiser

Detailed Answer:
I have reviewed the newly uploaded pictures and they seem to be either ecchymotic spots due to some unnoticed injury or dry discoid eczema.
If I was your treating doctor I would recommend you to apply topical steroid like cortisone cream on the affected areas twice daily along with frequent and liberal application of a moisturising lotion on the entire arms 2-3 times in a day.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana