I am getting yearly itchy rash outbreaks. What are they?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been suffering from this problem for a few years, and every year it seems to be worsening than the previous one. I am overweight, and I have lost about 15 pounds by working hard. I got yearly rash outbreaks on arms, especially forearms. I have diabetes and take many medications, but doctors say none of my medicines are responsible for it. It happens mainly in the summer. They are very itchy and do not go away despite using creams. I took some pills that did not help either. It leaves horrible scars. Even a dermatologist I saw did not seem to know what was wrong. I am sure it is partially a heat rash, but it has completely scarred up my arms. I am attaching the list of medicines I am taking and the biopsy report. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I had gone through the reports (attachment removed to protect patient identity). It looks like polymorphic light eruptions may be allergic contact dermatitis. I suggest the measures given below;

1. You can use full sleeve cotton shirts to cover the photo-exposed area.

2. You need absolute sun protection, good quality broad-spectrum physical sunscreen.

It is a chronic problem, and it may occur off and on. You can use mid potency topical steroids over the affected areas once daily for around one week and continue Hydroxyzine.