Ask a doctor on the topic of Dermatology

Psoriasis rash or skin cancer

July 29, 2013 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Hello,

for several weeks now I have had irritated, slightly scaly/pimply skin on my elbow, which also itches from time to time. At first, I simply thought it was a rash or a mild case of psoriasis, but when I searched the internet today, I read some alarming information.

Supposedly, itchy, scaly skin could also be a form of skin cancer called white skin cancer. I never even considered this possibility, as I always associated skin cancer with dark spots. If you google "White skin cancer itches", you will find an article on Spiegel.de with a description of white skin cancer that is quite alarming.

I have attached 2 pictures, perhaps you have an idea of what this could be. I am feeling quite panicked at the moment, and I can't see my dermatologist for at least 2 weeks.

The affected area is only on my left elbow, and it has been itching on and off in the last few days.

Here are the pictures:

www.myimg.de/?img=image86ef4.jpg

www.myimg.de/?img=image80ddc.jpg

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good day,

This is definitely not a white skin cancer, yes, certainly not any type of cancer. White skin cancer is neither so red, nor so elevated, nor so large.

To me, it looks like an intolerance reaction. Have you possibly leaned your elbows on the stove or on a table, then it fits perfectly. Psoriasis does not itch very much and causes silver scales, which are not visible here.

Why not ask your family doctor to prescribe a light cortisone cream. If it is an intolerance reaction, it should bring you clear relief after two days and healing after a maximum of 10 days.

Best regards, Dr. Frauke Höllering