Is prurigo nodularis linked to autoimmune diseases?

Question

Hello doctor,

My husband has been struggling with these weird, itchy bumps on his arms and legs for months now. They start as small red spots but turn into big, hard nodules. He scratches them so much that they start bleeding, and nothing seems to help. We thought it was just eczema at first, but the rashes are getting worse, and new ones keep appearing. He’s tried steroid creams and antihistamines, but they barely work. Could this be prurigo nodularis? What causes it, and why does it keep coming back? Is this linked to any autoimmune condition? Also, is there any long-term treatment for this, or will he have to keep dealing with flare-ups forever? It is really affecting his sleep because the itching gets unbearable at night. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

If possible, please provide photos of the lesion along with details of any investigations and treatments you have undergone. In the meantime, you can follow the prescribed treatment and precautions.

Differential diagnosis:

Eczema
Prurigo Nodularis

Treatment plan:

Apply calamine lotion locally.
Take Betahistine 8 mg twice daily.
Follow the recommended preventive measures.

Preventive measures:

Avoid sun exposure or use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Keep your fingernails trimmed short to prevent further irritation.
Avoid hot environments and activities that may cause excessive sweating.
Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers to protect your skin.
Wear long sleeves and gloves to minimize exposure and irritation.
If skin lesions break open or bleed, apply an antibiotic ointment and cover them with clean bandages to prevent infection.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.