Recurring Rash

[punjabi234]

I get these recurring red spots on my hands. They almost always occur in the same place. They occur on my wrists. Sometimes they feel itchy and sometimes they don't. The color is reddish/pinkish. They are not raised and they are not sores or pimple like. They look like as if the color of my skin has turned red only. When I press on them, the reddish color goes away. They go away by themselves. It usually takes a day or so.

Should I be worried?  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be lichen planus. Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the oral mucosa, and presents itself in the form of papules(flat spots) or rashes. Treatment is available only on prescription and consists mainly of steroids, retinoids, hydroquinone and phototherapy.

My sincere advice is to consult a dermatologist and 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.

[punjabi234]

Thank you so much for the reply Dr. Kaur Ji,

Should I undergo treatment? I was doing some research and found that this condition is usually harmless. Also, this problem really doesn't bother me at all. I was just wondering what causes the red spots. They disappear very quickly.

What is the difference between this condition and allergic dermatitis?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Allergic dermatitis is an itchy skin condition caused by an allergic reaction to material in contact with the skin. affected skin may be red, swollen and blistered or dry and bumpy and it occurs as soon as the body part is in contact with the allergen. The onset of lichen planus can be sudden or gradual. The first attack may last for weeks or months, and recurrences may happen for years. But it appears as typical red or violaceous  which may be flat topped.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.