What causes dry circular rash on thigh?
Patient: I have a dry circular rash on my outer left thigh. It's 1.5 inches in diameter. Resembles a bullseye or ringworm. Does not itch. It had been there for 3-4 months. Three weeks ago patches of dry skin started appearing on the left  outer thigh and now on the rt outer thigh.  Now have about 10 patches each thigh. Sometimes get sharp stabbing or pin stick pain all over my legs or pain in my lower legs that feel like bad shin splints. Also  notice  a reddish purple rash covered by a silky smooth silvery white thin layer of skin on my left shoulder blade.  Two weeks later another one appeared on my right shoulder. None of these rashes itch. Prior to these rashes I have developed a sensitivity to some bath products which caused yeast infections. I now bath in apple cider vinegar and honey. What is the cause of all the skin infections. Have noticed two spots on my face now. Hiv test  taken 3 weeks ago ands 6 months ago are negative. Doctor: Hello. Thanks for writing to us at healthcaremagicThese patches could either be Discoid dermatitis Or Fungal Infection/Tinea.The distribution of the patches however goes more in favor of Discoid dermatitis rather than fungal infection.Outer thighs are a relatively common site for these patches because this area is dry; Tinea is common in the inner thigh area.A KOH examination would prove to be conclusive in that regard. Topical OTC antifungals e.g clotrimazole 1% cream may be tried if KOH is positive for fungal elements.On the other hand if it is negative for fungal elements treatment would eb along lines of discoid dermatitis.Since underlying dryness is the predisposing factor in Discoid dermatitis, therefore I would suggest an OTC intensive moisturizer over the whole affected area.Specifically for the patches, I would suggest a topical potent steroid cream e.g clobetasol propionate cream, twice daily for 2-4 weeks.Topical steroids are prescription products. I would suggest that you visit a dermatologist in your region for a confirmatory diagnosis as well as appropriate prescription.Regards