1. < Breast Cancer

Has anyone had a red itching rash in armpit?

Posted by traci999 @traci999, Jun 6 8:20am

I had invasive DC in my right breast with the removal of two lymph nodes in September of 23. I went thru 4 weeks or radiation. I know how this red rash that is itchy underneath the other arm put. I am concerned but wondering if anyone else has experience this. Thanks for your imput.

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Mentor
Miriam, Volunteer Mentor | @mir123 | Jun 6 9:53am

Red itchy rash could be my middle name--I am no stranger to it. Most often it is a common fungal infection, especially in folds of skin, like the armpit. If I were you, I'd do two things simultaneously. I'd get an OTC anti-fungal skin cream and also make an appointment with PCP or dermatologist (even urgent care). I'd start off with cream and see if it works and if it doesn't or you have on-going concerns go see a doctor, who at least can prescribe a stronger ant-fungal if indicated. Summer humidity can make it worse. I do understand your post BC concern, though, and wouldn't ignore it.

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1 reply
traci999 | @traci999 | Jun 6 10:07am
In reply to @mir123 "Red itchy rash could be my middle name--I am no stranger to it. Most often it..." + (show)
@mir123

Red itchy rash could be my middle name--I am no stranger to it. Most often it is a common fungal infection, especially in folds of skin, like the armpit. If I were you, I'd do two things simultaneously. I'd get an OTC anti-fungal skin cream and also make an appointment with PCP or dermatologist (even urgent care). I'd start off with cream and see if it works and if it doesn't or you have on-going concerns go see a doctor, who at least can prescribe a stronger ant-fungal if indicated. Summer humidity can make it worse. I do understand your post BC concern, though, and wouldn't ignore it.

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Thank you so much for your comment. I will definitely try that before reaching out to my dr. When you've had BC anything like that is so scary. Thanks & have a great day.

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Mentor
Miriam, Volunteer Mentor | @mir123 | Jun 6 10:21am
In reply to @traci999 "Thank you so much for your comment. I will definitely try that before reaching out to..." + (show)
@traci999

Thank you so much for your comment. I will definitely try that before reaching out to my dr. When you've had BC anything like that is so scary. Thanks & have a great day.

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If it tends to be a wait to get in with your doctor you might make an appointment now and try cream in interim.

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deebee41 | @deebee41 | Jun 7 10:49am

I ( male ) had chronic fungal growths in armpits and chest...looked like red welts ..Dr prescribed Clotrimazole with Betamethasone ( steroidal )and it cleared up within a week ...no itching or redness now. Previously used Isoketoconazole and it was not too effective. The Clortrimazole should be used sparingly and wash hands before and after using.

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1 reply
traci999 | @traci999 | Jun 7 10:52am
In reply to @deebee41 "I ( male ) had chronic fungal growths in armpits and chest...looked like red welts ..Dr..." + (show)
@deebee41

I ( male ) had chronic fungal growths in armpits and chest...looked like red welts ..Dr prescribed Clotrimazole with Betamethasone ( steroidal )and it cleared up within a week ...no itching or redness now. Previously used Isoketoconazole and it was not too effective. The Clortrimazole should be used sparingly and wash hands before and after using.

Jump to this post

Thanks for the response. I will check with my PCP.

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dinodonna | @dinodonna | Jun 20 8:11am

When this happened to me (both armpits after radiation), it was a fungal infection that was basically because my skin was not drying out. I was getting sweaty as many of us do with the hormonal changes, not using deodorant during my healing time as I had an incision from my lymph nodes being removed, and not using either of my arms as much since my one arm was painful and I was keeping it still against my side. In addition to using cream, I put a dry washcloth in my armpit when I was just sitting or sleeping so that moisture was not accumulating there. It cleared up on my non-BC side within a few days, and on the BC/surgery side within a few weeks. I also periodically used my hair dryer on a cool setting to dry off my armpit areas and that seemed to help.

Good luck to you!

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dick61 | @dick61 | Jun 21 7:06am

If it's not a fungal infection, use Vanicream alternating with OTC cortisone cream. Worked for me. Good luck.

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