Seeking Assistance: Persistent Rash Issue Since June
I am reaching out for help regarding a troubling skin issue my seven-year-old daughter has been facing since June. She has no previous health complications, but this rash has emerged predominantly in her groin area and on her buttocks. After conducting several blood tests, the results all came back normal. Both bacterial and fungal cultures failed to indicate any growth. Currently, the rash has spread to several other areas, including her butt cheeks, behind her knees, in her armpits, and at the crease of her elbows. Despite consultations with six pediatricians and two dermatologists, we are still without a definitive diagnosis. We have attempted various treatments such as mupirocin, clotrimazole, fluconazole, hydrocortisone, and triamcinolone. Of these, triamcinolone has provided some temporary relief, but the rash reappears shortly after the treatment is discontinued. We’ve noticed that elevated heat and sweating exacerbate the condition, particularly when she swims. I would greatly appreciate any insights or support on this matter. While ChatGPT suggested flexural eczema, the dermatologists indicated that it doesn’t appear to be eczema-related.
Answers (1)
8/13/2025, 3:02:00 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for providing a detailed account of your daughter's persistent rash. It sounds very frustrating, especially after seeking help from various medical professionals without a clear resolution.
Main Points
- Your daughter's rash has persisted for several months and spread to multiple areas.
- Previous treatments have provided only temporary relief.
- Heat and sweating seem to worsen her condition.
Explanation
Given the information about the rash appearing in areas that are prone to moisture and friction, it could be pointing towards a condition that is not solely bacterial or fungal in nature. Possible causes include intertrigo, which is inflammation in skin folds that can be exacerbated by friction, moisture, and heat.
The fact that triamcinolone helped temporarily might suggest an inflammatory component, but it could also mean that other treatments are needed alongside.
Next Steps
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Keep the Skin Dry: Focus on keeping the affected areas dry and exposed to air as much as possible. Use loose-fitting, breathable clothing to reduce moisture retention.
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Apply Barrier Cream: Consider using a barrier cream or ointment, such as zinc oxide or petroleum jelly, to protect the skin in the affected areas. This can help reduce irritation and prevent moisture buildup.
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Gentle Cleansing Routine: Use mild, fragrance-free soaps for cleaning to avoid further irritation. Pat the areas dry instead of rubbing.
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Focus on Temperature Control: Try to keep her cool to prevent sweating, especially during swimming. Look for cooler times of the day for outdoor activities and use wet or breathable swimwear.
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Track Symptoms: Keep a log of when her symptoms flare up, including information like heat exposure, products used, and any changes in her environment (e.g., new laundry detergents). This may help identify triggers.
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Consider a Patch Test: If not already done, consider having a patch test administered by a dermatologist to rule out any allergic reactions to specific substances or materials.
Please continue to follow up with your healthcare providers regarding further evaluations, especially if symptoms worsen or do not improve with these strategies. It’s essential to monitor her skin condition closely and adjust your approach as needed. Your persistent care in exploring this issue shows a strong commitment to her health, which is commendable. Let me know if you need further information or support.
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