What could cause reddish, itchy bumps on the stomach?

Question

Hi doctor,

I noticed some small skin-coloured bumps appear on my stomach last week after going to a club the previous night in a tight bodysuit and jeans. As the days went by, the bumps got bigger and spread, turned red, and are now itchy at times. As each day goes by, there are more and more bumps, each of different sizes and all very red.

The bumps are rough-looking, and the bigger bumps look like a bunch of very small bumps squished together. I have seen three doctors, and none of them seems to know what is going on. I am considering taking 50 mg of Prednisone, but my immune system is already fairly weak.

What should I do?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I have seen your query and concern.

With your descriptions and the picture you provided (the attachment was removed to protect the patient's identity), it seems you have developed pityriasis rosea (PR). PR is a self-limiting eruption, which means it will subside on its own after a specified duration if not treated.

The exact cause is unknown, though the following factors may be relevant:

Infection - A relationship with recent upper respiratory infections has been recorded, and some studies have demonstrated the presence of HHV-7 (human herpes virus).
Drugs - Metronidazole, Gold, Isotretinoin, Captopril, Bismuth, Arsenic, Barbiturates, Clonidine, and Omeprazole have been reported to cause PR or PR-like rashes, often with atypical features and a protracted course.
Pityriasis rosea-like eruptions can also occur following hepatitis B and BCG vaccination (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin).
Other factors - Atopy, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne vulgaris are more common in patients with PR.
In classic Pityriasis rosea, the primary eruptions, also called the herald patch or mother patch, are seen in 50 to 90 percent of cases on the covered trunk.

As pityriasis rosea is self-limiting, you can be reassured regarding the innocuous and self-limiting nature of the disease.

You can use the topical corticosteroid Mometasone on the body and Fluticasone on the face once daily for two weeks. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss the matter with him or her, and take the medicines with their consent.

I hope this answers your query. Thank you.