Spreading Rash

[worried_22]

I have had a rash on my neck for about six months or so. It started off small and flesh colored but now it has gotten bigger and red. It now goes from my hairline down to my collarbone. It's not itchy or bumpy. It is starting to worry me though because it is spreading and changed colors. Can anyone help me?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This rash can be due to atopic dermatitis or lichen simplex chronicus. Lichen Simplex Chronicus is seen in people with eczema. It is non contagious. It is treated like chronic eczema by decreasing water and soap contact, and applying emollients. Topical steroids are almost always needed to control the symptoms. You can use mild steroid cream like Dermacort and if the symptoms persist then high potency steroids and oral steroids may be needed.
My sincere advice would be to consult a dermatologist to get the diagnosis confirmed. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? What other symptoms are present? Can you elaborate on the rash? The rash could be due to infection or skin conditions such as dermatitis or eczema. Infection may be attributed to bacterial, yeast or fungal causes. Superficial candidal skin infections may appear in areas which are warm and moist including the axilla, neck or groin. These rashes may appear as a red flat rash with sharp scalloped edges with smaller patches  called "satellite lesions" nearby. To rule this out, it is best that you have this checked by your doctor or dermatologist for proper evaluation. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Take care and do keep us posted.