Knee Skin Issue: What Could It Be?
Hello! I hope you can help me with a concern I have about my knee. I’m a 20-year-old woman, standing at 160 cm and weighing 70 kg. Recently, I've noticed a troublesome patch on my knee. This area has become scaly and itchy, and it first appeared during my early teenage years. Initially, it manifested on my right knee as a tiny cluster of itchy bumps. Despite being small, scratching the area made it bleed and seemed to exacerbate the size of the irritation. Eventually, I also observed that the same patch developed on my left knee as well. After a while, I decided to consult a physician about this issue. Although I didn’t receive a concrete diagnosis, I was prescribed a topical ointment. Unfortunately, the cream didn’t have any labeling and I don’t know the specific ingredients, as it was a custom mix from the office. Thankfully, after applying it for some time, the patches on both knees cleared up entirely. However, a few years later, the condition returned. Two years back, I had a minor incident where I cut my right knee. The wound was small, roughly 1 cm, and I chose to let it heal naturally. This left me with a scar, which initially seemed fine for about a year. Then out of nowhere, the scar began to itch a bit. It was dry at first, leading me to peel off the dead skin, but soon the itchiness intensified, prompting me to scratch it. Now, I see that the irregularity is spreading again. It resembles the earlier issue, yet this time it’s smoother rather than scaly, although it’s just as itchy. I still have some of the ointment from the doctor’s visit, and applying it seems to relieve the itchiness temporarily. Just before I used the cream again, the area appeared to be inflamed due to persistent scratching. So, I am wondering what this could be. Is it wise to consult a dermatologist regarding this skin condition? I did some research online and the symptoms I've experienced in the past seem to align with psoriasis pictures, but the current manifestation, while spreading similarly, does not exhibit the same scaly characteristic. Thank you for taking the time to read my message. I apologize for the length and any confusion in my explanations, as English isn’t my first language. Wishing you all a great day!
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 2:00:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing a recurring skin issue on your knees that causes discomfort and has changed over time. The condition you describe, with symptoms like itchiness, dryness, and the return of patches, could be related to a few different skin conditions, possibly including eczema, psoriasis, or even post-inflammatory changes from your injury.
Explanation:
You mentioned that the patches initially presented as scaly and itchy, which can be indicative of conditions like psoriasis. However, the recent changes in texture—now being smoother, less scaly but still itchy—might suggest something different, potentially an allergic reaction, eczema flare-up, or dermatitis related to the scar. The fact that it improved with the ointment previously indicates that it could be a treatable condition.
Next Steps:
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Continue Using the Ointment: As the ointment seems to provide temporary relief from itching, consider using it sparingly until you have a clearer diagnosis. Avoid scratching the area to minimize irritation.
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Avoid Irritants: Be careful with soaps, lotions, or chemicals that may irritate your skin. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free products on your knees.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes to the patches, including size, color, or texture. A symptom diary might help you notice patterns or triggers.
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Consult a Dermatologist: Given that the condition has persisted and evolved, a visit to a dermatologist is a wise decision. They can provide a thorough examination, potentially give a clearer diagnosis, and suggest a targeted treatment plan. A dermatologist may also perform tests to rule out other conditions if necessary.
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Consider Patch Testing: If allergies are a concern, ask about patch testing, which can help identify if specific substances are causing your symptoms.
Overall, while there could be various causes for your knee skin issue, seeing a specialist will help you get a definitive answer and the right treatment. Don't hesitate to reach out for professional help, as they can provide you with comprehensive support.
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