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ask the dermatologistYesterday morning I woke up to discover a round red rash about two inches in diameter on my left side by ribcage. It itches slightly and is tender to touch. This morning it looks like there is a bit of a darker red spot in the middle. Also, up from there on same side I have what feels like a small bean shaped lump that is also tender (swollen lymph node?) It is the weekend, so can't get to dermatologist. Any idea what this could be?
Optional Information: Person's Gender: Female Person's Age: 56 Already Tried: Nothing
Hi,Would it be possible to take a photograph of this rash at your convenience? If not do let me know and we can work without one.
Yes I have images. Not sure how to add them.
Okay great, if you can transfer these photographs to your computer then the fastest way to get a picture to me is to upload it to the question box by clicking on the paper clip or tree icon in the question box toolbar. This toolbar does not display in google chrome and safari so an alternate browser may be required. You can also upload them to any free photo hosting site like picasa or photobucket and send me the link if you prefer.
Thank you for the photograph. This patch is suggestive of either an insect bite reaction or a bacterial infection known as erysipelas. An insect bite reaction looks more likely.The bump you mention could well be a swollen lymph node and this can occur in either condition. Neither of the two conditions are dangerous and can easily wait till Monday when you can see a dermatologist if required.Here is what I would recommend:1% Cortizone cream + Bacitracin ointment - mix in equal parts and apply twice a day over the lesion for 7-10 daysTab Claritin 10 mg once a day for 7 to 10 days if the itching is bothering you.Tab Advil 400 mg twice a day after meals for 3 days to decrease the redness.Air out your mattress and leave it in the sun for 6 hours. Keep your screen doors and windows shut in the evenings is applicable.NOTE: All of the products listed above are available over the counter.Hope this information is useful, please feel free to ask if you have any queries.Please remember to only rate my answer when you are satisfied. If you have any queries, please respond via the REPLY button and I will be happy to continue further and do everything I can to provide you with the service you seek.
Thank you for your advice. It does feel and itch like an insect bite, but the largeness of the rash was confusing. Will get the ointments you suggested.
Another thing that I didn't previously mention because I didn't think it could be related, is I recently had blood work indicating a postive ANA and am being referred to a rheumatologist. Not sure if this could have anything to do with that. I don't have anything else else happening on my body except a few small rough patches of skin that seemed to have cropped up lately.
You're most welcome! Hmm well some type of Lupus can present like this - but not as an isolated patch. I would still say an insect bite reaction is most likely.
Ok, thanks. Am off to pick up the creams. Your advice is greatly appreciated.
You're most welcome! All the best & regards.
Sorry, one more thing. I just thought of this. I'm staying at a hotel and was wondering if this could be a bedbug bite! Is there a sure way to tell?
Could be bed bug bite, I'm afriad there is no way to tell one insect from another barring spider bites which ofte blister.
Thanks again for your help!
You're most welcome!
Experience: MBBS, MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology)