Ep 8. A Rash Diagnosis

In Save My Skin season 2 episode 8, titled "A Rash Diagnosis," dermatologist Dr. Emma Craythorne is faced with a challenging case as she tries to uncover the root cause of a patient's persistent rash. The patient, a middle-aged woman named Karen, has been dealing with a rash that appeared on her arms and legs about a year ago. Despite seeking treatment from various doctors and trying different remedies, the rash has not responded well to any of the treatments, and Karen has been left feeling frustrated and desperate.

Dr. Emma begins by examining Karen's skin and asking her questions about her medical history and lifestyle. From her examination, Dr. Emma is able to determine that the rash is not caused by an infection but is likely the result of an allergic reaction. However, pinpointing the exact allergen is not an easy task, as Karen's symptoms seem to be too vague and widespread to point towards any specific culprit. Dr. Emma decides to run some tests to eliminate any potential causes, including allergies to certain foods, fabrics, or cosmetics.

As the tests come back negative, Dr. Emma grows increasingly concerned that Karen's rash may be a symptom of an underlying autoimmune condition. She orders more comprehensive blood tests and refers Karen to a rheumatologist for further evaluation. Karen is hesitant about seeing another specialist, but Dr. Emma reassures her that it is important to rule out any serious medical conditions that may be causing her symptoms.

Meanwhile, Dr. Emma also discovers that Karen's job as a part-time gardener may be exacerbating her rash. Karen is prone to spending long hours outdoors, where she is exposed to different plants, soils, and pesticides. Dr. Emma advises Karen to wear protective clothing and gloves, as well as to avoid working when the sun is strongest.

As Karen waits for her rheumatology appointment, Dr. Emma tries a few different treatments to alleviate her rash. She prescribes a topical steroid cream and recommends a fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe Karen's dry and itchy skin. She also suggests that Karen try a wet wrap therapy, which involves applying a wet compress to her skin after applying medication, to help reduce inflammation.

After several weeks of following Dr. Emma's advice, Karen's rash shows some improvement. However, her rheumatology appointment reveals some concerning results, and she is diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder. Although this news is difficult for Karen to hear, Dr. Emma continues to support her and works with the rheumatologist to develop a treatment plan that includes medication and regular follow-ups. Karen is grateful to finally have a diagnosis and is hopeful that the treatment will help her manage her symptoms and improve her quality of life.

In the end, "A Rash Diagnosis" is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking proper medical care, even for seemingly minor skin issues. Through her compassionate and thorough approach, Dr. Emma helps Karen uncover the root cause of her rash and provides her with the guidance and resources she needs to manage her condition. The episode also highlights the intricate relationship between various medical specialties, as Dr. Emma works closely with Karen's rheumatologist to provide her with comprehensive care.