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What Causes Numbness In Upper Outer Thigh?
Question: Hi for about 2 months I have lost sensation of touch in my right upper outer thigh skin. By that I mean the upper outer thigh area is numb. If I touch it with an object, I don't feel anything.
Tonight I discovered that the skin on back right of my knee has a very abnormal color. It is a dark brown, although I am Caucasian. I also believe this area is swollen by comparing how it feels to my left knee. For about two months this area has been itchy and I have been treating it with moisturizer or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. I suspect the swelling, which I just discovered tonight, has been causing a dermatitis in this area
I have absolutely no pain in either area mentioned above, except from scratching the irritated skin behind my knee.
Tonight I discovered that the skin on back right of my knee has a very abnormal color. It is a dark brown, although I am Caucasian. I also believe this area is swollen by comparing how it feels to my left knee. For about two months this area has been itchy and I have been treating it with moisturizer or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. I suspect the swelling, which I just discovered tonight, has been causing a dermatitis in this area
I have absolutely no pain in either area mentioned above, except from scratching the irritated skin behind my knee.
Brief Answer:
Possible neuropathy
Detailed Answer:
Hi Sir,
I understand your query and concern.
As per your clinical history pertaining to upper and outer area, the numbness could be related to neuropathy of the nerve supplying the outer thigh.
This neuropathy can be related to either to compression or metabolic cause.
To document this I advise you to get a nerve conduction study, MRI scan of the spine and Vit B12 study.
All the 3 tests mentioned are absolutely mandate to arrive at a conclusive etiological diagnosis and guide to management.
Pertaining to rash and discoloration around knee, it’s related to flexural dermatitis.
Stop Hydrocortisone.Use antibacterial/antifungal creams like flagyl and terbinafine under doctor's prescription. It will resolve. Nothing to worry much pertaining to behind knee
Post your doubts if any.
Thank you.
Possible neuropathy
Detailed Answer:
Hi Sir,
I understand your query and concern.
As per your clinical history pertaining to upper and outer area, the numbness could be related to neuropathy of the nerve supplying the outer thigh.
This neuropathy can be related to either to compression or metabolic cause.
To document this I advise you to get a nerve conduction study, MRI scan of the spine and Vit B12 study.
All the 3 tests mentioned are absolutely mandate to arrive at a conclusive etiological diagnosis and guide to management.
Pertaining to rash and discoloration around knee, it’s related to flexural dermatitis.
Stop Hydrocortisone.Use antibacterial/antifungal creams like flagyl and terbinafine under doctor's prescription. It will resolve. Nothing to worry much pertaining to behind knee
Post your doubts if any.
Thank you.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju
Answered by
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