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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Itchiness Of The Skin From Neck To Lower Leg?

Hello doctor, my 51 year old brother is suffering and has suffered for 12 months now an awful itchiness of the skin from his neck to lower leg, not his face or hands. He is 6ft 7 and a gentle giant, not overweight and suffers largely in silence. He has had several blood tests, that show nothing abnormal , has had all thyroid tests and are all normal , unless coated in a steroid cream he suffers night and day. Has been in hospital twice recently as a result of scratching in the night on the lower leg to cause vasculitis with a swollen red calf resulting in intraveneous treatment on both occasions. His diet has not changed over the time and has always avoided sugar and carb. Has had his histamine levels checked. He suffered with chronic fatigue in his 20 s and really has never enjoyed good health. His energy is good and life is a lot better for him but now this skin irritation is extreme. What could this be ?? He has been seen by the senior dermatologist in Adelaide - no answers. Question - could a toenail fungus untreated for sometime cause a skin irritation ? How about scabbies - can you test for that ? Thankyou I would appreciate your feedback, from a concerned sister,Linda
Tue, 31 Mar 2015
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Dermatologist,  's  Response
Hello,

I can understand your concern for itchiness of the skin from neck to lower leg. After analyzing your query I can the best possibility of scabies.

Scabies specifically manifested as intense itching all over the body but particularly over web spaces of hands, arm pits, around nipples, abdomen, genital area and over thighs. More typically we find itching at joint spaces. There can be recurrent rash present in persons with good hygiene.

The itching is typically worse at night time. In my patients I prefer the overnight application of "Permethrin" 5% lotion or cream below neck area. Once you apply it gives complete relief within 48 hours. You can take further guidance from a dermatologist.
All the best.
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What Causes Itchiness Of The Skin From Neck To Lower Leg?

Hello, I can understand your concern for itchiness of the skin from neck to lower leg. After analyzing your query I can the best possibility of scabies. Scabies specifically manifested as intense itching all over the body but particularly over web spaces of hands, arm pits, around nipples, abdomen, genital area and over thighs. More typically we find itching at joint spaces. There can be recurrent rash present in persons with good hygiene. The itching is typically worse at night time. In my patients I prefer the overnight application of Permethrin 5% lotion or cream below neck area. Once you apply it gives complete relief within 48 hours. You can take further guidance from a dermatologist. All the best.