r/DiagnoseMe • u/ApproximateS144 • 1h ago
Ring-shaped patches on my arm for 3 weeks. Pharmacist gave me clobetasol, but I'm worried it might make things worse.
galleryAge: 17
Sex/Gender: Male
Height and weight: 5'2" (157 cm), around 44 kg
Race/Ethnicity: Filipino
Geographic location: Philippines
Pre-existing medical issues: None that I'm aware of
Current medications: Clobetasol propionate cream, applied once so far
Duration of complaint: Around 3 weeks
Symptoms and description:
I've had several ring-shaped patches on my skin for about 3 weeks. The patches on my arm are flat, not itchy, and have a clearer center with dry, slightly scaly skin around the edges. I initially thought they were just dry skin, so I used lotion.
I also have around 1–2 similar patches on my legs and 2–3 on my back. I've attached a photo of the patches on my arm.
I asked a pharmacist about them, and they gave me clobetasol propionate. I haven't had them examined by a doctor, so I'm not sure if they're actually ringworm. I also recently learned that clobetasol is a potent steroid, and I'm unsure whether it's appropriate for this condition.
Unfortunately, I can't really afford a doctor's consultation right now.
My questions are:
Do these patches look like ringworm, or could they be another skin condition?
Is clobetasol propionate an antifungal, or should I be using a different treatment?
What affordable treatment options are available in the Philippines?
Is there anything I should avoid doing while these patches are present?
I'd appreciate any advice. Thank you!