Suggest treatment for itchy rash spreading from scalp down the neck and upper back
Patient: My daughter started out with an very itchy scalp. I checked for lice numerous times and there is no sign of them . Her scalp continued to itch. She now has a rash spreading from her scalp down her neck and upper back . The rash is particularly bad behind her ears. What could be causing this? Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.  She seems to have either scalp seborrheic dermatitis or scalp psoriasis. In that case, if I was the treating dermatologist I would suggest a coal tar and salicylic acid based shampoo for her. I would suggest that she used a topical steroid and salicylic acid based lotion for scalp application. In addition I would also suggest her to take an oral antihistamine e.g Cetrizine tablet for symptomatic relief from itching. These are all prescription medications and I advice you to kindly talk to a dermatologist in your region for the needful.  Regards.