Raised red itchy bumps form leathery itchy patches that last for months

30 yo male

Condition for approximately 9 months

.

Raised red bumps began to appear on my forearms, elbows and inside of calves after using an electric shaver to trim hair about 9 months ago (I have done this for years with no issue). They were extremely itchy, especially at night. After a couple of weeks of intense itching, some of these bumps sort of combined at three locations forming three large patches (up to 3cm x 2cm) on the inside of both calves and on my forearm. It is worth noting that this did not happen at the location of all bumps as some just disappeared after a week or two.

.

I saw a doctor and we ruled out clothing/irritants/etc. What was noted was moving to a new home and the introduction of a neighbourhood cat that kept coming around. I was given steroid cream by the doctor and applied it but I really don't think it helped. I also had pest control out to the house and they did their work.

.

After 2 months, the patches just suddenly disappeared over a couple of days leaving slightly discoloured skin. Since then, I have not shaved down to the skin with an electric shaver however this issue has returned a few times in roughly the same areas (Inside of calves, back of elbow, wrist/forearm). Again it was the same story. Small red bump or bumps form a large patch over the course of a few weeks. Extremely itchy. Lasts a couple of months. Disappears suddenly. Slight skin discolouration.

.

It is now happening again for the third cycle and I'm not too sure what to do. I don't think it could be cat related considering this only happens in the same areas but could be wrong. I have linked an image compilation for clarity. Any help would be appreciated here.

.

0 likes, 1 reply