I have a fungal infection on the face that recurs when I stop the cream. Please help.

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 24 years old. I have been diagnosed to have a fungal infection on my face. I was suggested to use Candid-B cream (Beclometasone and Clotrimazole) when I was in primary school. I had relief, but I have been developing the same kind of lesions for five years now, and I have been using Candid-B every night. If I stop using this cream, I develop itching and red rashes within a period of four to five days. I consulted a dermatologist regarding this issue, and he suggested I use Miczo F cream (Fluocinolone acetonide and Miconazole) for two weeks and then stop. But I have the same trouble after discontinuing the cream. Will you please help me to withdraw the cream safely?

Answer 1

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

I have noted your concern. I have viewed the images (attachments are removed to protect the patient's identity). I can see some dryness, flakiness, and small red patches on the side of the chin, jaw, and side of the upper lip. It is not exactly a fungal infection. It is actually seborrheic dermatitis of the face. It is a condition similar to dandruff on the scalp. Seborrheic dermatitis also has a fungal etiology. The overgrowth of yeast Malassezia furfur is supposed to play a role in seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp and face. The creams you have been using contain an antifungal and steroid component. Though the steroid component brings rapid control in seborrheic dermatitis, as soon as discontinuing the cream the rash comes back, as in your case. I suggest you try a non-steroid cream like Pimecrolimus 1 % cream (Picon cream or Elidel cream), twice daily. You may use it for three to four weeks and then taper it off gradually. It may or may not recur when you stop the cream but Pimecrolimus is at least much safer than steroid creams even if they have to be used long-term.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

Fine. Thank you.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.