Suggest remedies for an itchy patch at the base of my spine
Patient: I have an itchy patch right at the base of my spine, the skin looks normal and it did not itch while I was away in Greece on holiday, but started again when I came back, it is not constant but seems to occur at random times. Double base cream helps to soothe it. Doctor: Hello and Welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.Perhaps it is either a fungal infection or it could be an eczema patch. A fungal infection is usually a ring shaped peripherally expanding lesion with central clearing and raised, red, scaly margins whereas a chronic eczema patch is dry, red and scaly throughout. For a fungal infection I would usually suggest an OTC topical antifungal e.g clotrimazole 1% cream, whereas for an eczema patch, a moisturizer along with a topical steroid cream would usually work. Apart from specific therapy you may also take an oral antihistamine e.g cetrizine 10mg tablet for symptomatic relief.Hope I have answered your queryLet me know if you need any more assistance