Knees and elbows are places subject to the greatest injury. When falling backwards, they often land on their elbows, a push forward - and again they suffer. Therefore, so often a rash on the knees and elbows of an adult and a child (this is especially true for them) occurs initially here - in places everywhere involved. On the elbows themselves, the rash is of different localization: outside, on the bends, on the side, etc. The same applies to the knees, and there are a lot of reasons for this.
When pimples itch on the elbows and itch, it is worth paying attention to, because pathology can be contagious. Pimples are no less rare on the knees.
Causes of Elbow Rash
The skin can be damaged not only from the outside in the form of a rash, but also from the inside by:
- infection;
- allergic reactions;
- trophic disorders and innervation in chronic diseases;
- with oncology;
- from old age.
The causes of a rash on the elbows and knees in a child can be:
- diaper dermatitis;
- chickenpox, scarlet fever, rubella, measles;
- food allergy;
- prickly heat;
- skin irritation by contact with clothes washed with allergenic powder;
- bites of stinging and blood-sucking insects;
- skin contact with some plants (nettle).
In adults, the etiology is to some extent determined by age. In the elderly, for example, there is a clear connection between the rash and the use of certain drugs, with stress, metabolic and dystrophic disorders and inflammation (neurodermatitis, bursitis, etc.). Since the structure of the skin and elbows, as well as the function of these areas, is practically no different, all that is said below will concern both areas.
There are some pathologies that like to hit the elbows: for example, the constant friction of the elbows on the surface of tables, desks becomes a frequent cause.
Such constant contact creates a certain degree of humidity and temperature, microcracks occur in the skin, microbes settle in them, multiplying, they cause inflammation.
This is especially often observed when working at a computer table, with bartenders, accountants, etc. The skin on the elbows is sensitive, characterized by dryness and a tendency to peeling.
The causes of rash on the elbows and knees in children and adults may be the following factors:
- hives;
- atopic dermatitis;
- eczema;
- psoriasis;
- lichen;
- scabies;
- mycoses (rarely).
The nature of the rash
The rash in these areas can be located: on the inside or outside of the elbow, on the patella, on the inside of the knee, above and below the knee.
A rash under the knee is almost always combined with the one on the elbow, and its cause is more often a chronic allergy. The outside of the elbow and knee is “loved” by fungi.
Rashes occur in the form of: small dots, red spots, white vesicles, cracks, peeling, tubercles.
Blisters and bubbles should never be squeezed out. Accompanied by a rash may be:
- itching with swelling;
- weeping;
- inflammation;
- peeling.
But the rash may not be accompanied by additional symptoms. Wetting indicates a bacterial etiology of the rash.
Elbow Rash
Among them are the following: annular granuloma, psoriasis, eczema, pityriasis versicolor.
Ring-shaped granuloma is a type of chronic rash that is common in women and children. Organisms of such people are usually healthy. The etiology of the rash is unknown. The rash in the form of round annular papules appears on the elbows, knees and hands.
There is no danger in it, except for a violation of appearance. Communicating with stray animals or caring for sick animals if the protective measures are not observed can lead to the appearance of ringworm, scabies in a person, and fleas from animals on the body will settle. All these lesions cause a rash in the indicated places.
Inadequate body and clothing care
Wearing dirty clothes promotes the multiplication of pathological flora on the body. Uncleaned skin is extremely attractive to mosquitoes and mosquitoes, various ticks. They really like the smell of sweat. Mosquitoes, for example, smell its smell at a distance of 10-15 meters.
Such skin is dangerous when bitten by wasps and bees. Dirty skin will contribute to the appearance of an abscess rash. Its unwashed surface has enlarged pores, where allergens and infection can easily penetrate.
Prickly heat
During the heat, the rash on the elbows and knees of the child itches and gives a lot of anxiety to the baby. This is a manifestation of sweating, with which a red dotted rash appears on the bends of the limbs due to irritation of it later. It is a great environment for bacteria.
Eczema
Eczema causes a rash, an inflammation reaction on the skin, peeling, redness and itching. The disease is characterized by periodic disappearance and the appearance of a rash. Pathology can manifest itself in rashes not only on the elbows, but also on the knees and other open areas of the body. First, pinkish vesicles appear, which then crack, itching and peeling begin, then crusts appear, they become wet, and an aqueous liquid oozes from the wound.
The essence of the pathology is that there is a failure in the nervous regulation of the trophic processes of the skin. And at the same time there are all kinds of violations - the destruction of skin structures and the process of its regeneration. But attempts to "repair" remain inconclusive, it all ends with tissue degeneration. Complete healing does not happen, so the episode of remission inevitably gives way to exacerbation.
On the skin, you can see areas with active inflammation of the red color and tissue in the scarring stage (all shades of pink). At the border of inflammation and healthy skin, a strip of peeling appears, covered with whitish scales. They can be completely detached and free, or still retain contact with the skin.
Psoriasis
The exact etiology of the disease is unknown. One manifestation of psoriasis is plaque with itching and a rash on the elbows. At the initial stage, the rashes are invisible and do not cause inconvenience. Then plaques with silver scales form. Psoriasis is a hereditary pathology, therefore it is not contagious.
Lack of vitamins
A lack of vitamins causes not only a rash on the skin, but also microcracks. The condition normalizes after taking vitamins A and D.
Mycosis
On the elbows, the fungus is rare. He moves here from the armpits, interdigital spaces. If untreated, the fungus affects the entire body. On the elbows, the rash looks like oval spots, consisting of small white pimples.
Endocrine disorders
It can also cause a rash and peeling on the elbows. It is worth noting that a malfunction in hormone production easily occurs during stress.
Allergic reactions
Allergy on the knees and elbows in an adult and a child develops according to one pattern, is associated with the release of a biologically active substance - histamine, which causes an intolerable itch. The reason is only one - contact with the allergen. This may be the impact of household chemicals, temperature extremes, the use of certain products, unsuitable cosmetics, dust, pollen, washing powders.
The cause of the allergy can sometimes be assumed depending on the location of the rash: for example, when the diet is overloaded, the rash will be sweet on the inside of the elbows; from the outside - the action of chemical allergens, etc.
Manifestations of an allergy on the elbows
After contact with the allergen, the elbow region swells and severe itching appears. The rash is in the form of papules and vesicles, they are almost the same size. Their contents are transparent. All elements of the rash tend to occur immediately at the same time, they do not have clear boundaries, they are prone to fusion.
If contact with the allergen continues, the rash spreads to the entire surface of the elbow joint. Over time, the bubbles burst, leaving a wet surface, the risk of infection increases. If the allergen is removed, the rash disappears without a trace.
Elbow Rash Treatment
With a rash on the elbows and knees, the causes and treatment are interrelated. Therapy is unconventional, it is selected individually, it includes medications, herbal medicine, physiotherapy, cryotherapy.
Drug therapy
The cause of the rashes, the age of the patient, the type and size of the rash are taken into account. May be assigned:
- Antibacterial agents - help to destroy pathogens, thus relieving inflammation and itching. The forms of release are very different, which is convenient for any age. These drugs prevent the development of infection and complications.
- Antiseptic drugs - these solutions treat the entire affected surface of the skin. They have drying and antibacterial properties. Thus, further infection and the spread of pathology to other sites are prevented. Moisturizers are indicated for dry skin, peeling and cracks.
- Hormonal ointments are the most powerful anti-rash remedies. They have high anti-inflammatory properties, but with an overdose cause side effects. It can be used only as directed by a doctor.
- In case of rashes and acne on the bends of the arms and legs in children, symptomatic agents are prescribed: antihistamines, pain and antipyretic drugs; ointments, gels with regenerating, cooling effects.
After removing the rashes, treatment will be aimed at suppressing the inadequate response of the body's immune system to:
- the appearance of antigen;
- improvement of all types of metabolism - general and local;
- strengthening the general tone of the body and immunocorrection (Ergoferon, Cycloferon, etc.).
Self-medication without tests can be dangerous.
For scabies, acaricidal external agents such as sulfuric ointment, benzyl benzoate, sodium thiosulfate, permethrin, etc.
In eczema, sedation is mandatory and most important at the beginning of treatment. For local treatment, hydrocortisone, prednisone, zinc ointment, Soderm, Advantan are indicated. Baths with a decoction from a series of celandine, calendula help dry out wet areas.
With psoriasis, ointments and creams will help - “Daybovet”, “Akrustal”, “Elokom”. Mandatory intake of vitamins, photochemotherapy.
If the cause of the rash on the elbows and knees of the child is an allergic reaction, first you need to determine the allergen. In children, this is difficult, here mom herself must find him. In addition to local treatment, antiallergic drugs are needed. They suppress the production of histamine and remove itching. Such funds include: Pipolfen, Tavegil, Suprastin, Claritin, Erius, Diphenhydramine and others. Today there are 4 generations of such drugs and they have a wide range of release forms.
With the ineffectiveness of the tablets, the drugs are administered parenterally. For severe allergies on the elbows and knees, glucocorticosteroids are used - Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone, Dexamethasone, etc. Also for topical use are shown: Flucinar, Cetirizine, Laticort, Rupafin, Fluorocort, “Loratadine”, “Celestoderm”, “Fenistil” and others.
If a ring-shaped granuloma is diagnosed, then with concomitant infections prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, drugs to improve microcirculation - “Tocopherol”, “Actovegin”, “Retinol”. Sometimes the lesion sites are punctured with "Dapsone" or "Acetonide" (antiplerosis, antibacterial). Cryotherapy is also used.
For mycosis, antimycotics are topically and orally prescribed: Fluconazole, Mycoseptin, Nystatin, Ketoconazole, Clotrimazole, etc. To improve metabolic processes, biostimulants are used - Aloe extract, FiBS, vitamins, circulatory stimulants (Mildron , Ripronat).
For general improvement and maintenance of tone, physiotherapy is indicated: magnetotherapy, ultraviolet radiation, radon baths, etc.
Treatment in children
Treatment of an allergic rash on the knees and elbows in a child also begins with the elimination of the allergen, as in adults. It is sometimes difficult for small children under 3 years old to identify an allergen and here a lot depends on the care of the mother herself.
The baby’s immune system is not yet fully formed. Even if the rash on the knees and elbows of the child causes an unbearable itch, parents must ensure that he does not comb it.
The mother should review the baby’s diet and adjust it to exclude baking, chocolate, milk, red fruits, etc. In addition, sorbents are needed: Smecta, Polysorb, Lactofiltrum.
How to treat a rash on the elbows and knees of a child of a different etiology? This is determined by the doctor after finding out its cause.
Preventative measures
They always start with hygiene. It is necessary to avoid prolonged mechanical effects on the skin in the elbow region, to control its condition. Allergens, stresses should be excluded. A full sleep is needed.
For infections in children, vaccination is used. Against dry elbows, creams and ointments are used to moisturize and soften their surface.
In case of skin lesions, the site of damage should be treated with an antiseptic. With a tendency to allergies, cosmetics and perfumes are chosen very carefully.
Do not forget about hypoallergenic products. When using chemicals, gloves must be worn. Clothing (especially in a child) should only be made from natural fabrics. To exclude a rash on the elbows and knees of a child, a chemical fiber should not be in the composition of clothing fabrics. After contact with pets, hands should be washed thoroughly with soap, and it is better not to come into contact with stray animals at all.