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What Does A Persistent Rash Behind The Ears Indicate?

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Posted on Tue, 7 Mar 2017
Question: I have had a rash for the last couple of weeks. It is behind my ears (where the skin is cracking, hurts to the touch, flaky skin) and on the inside of my arms (just on the other side of my elbows where it is small bumps and very itchy). And then, it went to my forehead. I have been using Cetaphil. It seemed to get better, and then suddenly flared up even worse over the last couple of days. I used a 'tar' shampoo, which I am thinking may have aggravated it. I switched to using Vaseline today. Is there anything else.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome

I appreciate your concern

Based on your description, it appears to be a superficial skin infection which is quite extensive ( most probably impetigo ) and would require systemic antibiotics instead of topical antibiotics. If the distribution is in a dermatomal pattern then herpes zoster is the likely cause. The lesion with herpes zoster is very painful and is not just a rash with slight itching or discomort. Anti virals would be required as treatment in that case.

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (22 minutes later)
Thank you, Dr. XXXXXXX Sareer XXXXXXX

Are you able to prescribe antibiotics online - or does this require a visit to a doctor?
Do you know what would be the cause of this? I have been trying to do a process of elimination to determine the root of the problem - diet, clothing, bedding, detergents, etc...
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (23 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:
Hello again.

This forum doesn't allow us to prescribe drugs online.

The cause in this case is often hard to pinpoint.

Dicloxacillin or amoxicillin clavulanate is a good empirical option for treatment.

A previous cut, wound, abrasion, insect bite and health care facility work /contact are the possible risk factors.

Thanks
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (58 minutes later)
Very grateful for your assistance and follow through. Have a wonderful day!
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (2 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Most welcome

Detailed Answer:
You are most welcome.

Have a great day.
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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2012

Answered : 2906 Questions

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What Does A Persistent Rash Behind The Ears Indicate?

Brief Answer: Explained Detailed Answer: Hello and welcome I appreciate your concern Based on your description, it appears to be a superficial skin infection which is quite extensive ( most probably impetigo ) and would require systemic antibiotics instead of topical antibiotics. If the distribution is in a dermatomal pattern then herpes zoster is the likely cause. The lesion with herpes zoster is very painful and is not just a rash with slight itching or discomort. Anti virals would be required as treatment in that case. Wishing you best of health Thanks