Nummular Dermatitis

What Is Nummular Dermatitis?

Nummular (coin-shaped) dermatitis is round areas of itchy red sores or dry skin. It can be an isolated lesion, or appear in several areas of the body. It can occur after trauma to the skin, or without a trigger. It is a chronic rash that most commonly affects middle-aged people and is more common in the winter.

What Causes Nummular Dermatitis?

Dermatologic experts do not know the exact cause of nummular dermatitis. Some possible triggers for the condition include:

• Allergies to substances like metals or chemicals used in clothing and cosmetics
• Other skin conditions such as dry skin and atopic dermatitis
• Trauma to the skin, such as an insect bite or scrape
• Cold, dry weather

Signs and Symptoms of Nummular Dermatitis

Common symptoms of nummular dermatitis include:

• A group of sores that may weep clear fluid and can grow larger and become crusted
• Pink, red or brown sores that usually itch or burn
• Itchy areas of pimples
• Dry skin
• Located on the back of the arms and legs and on the buttocks

Treatment for Nummular Dermatitis

Treatments focus on relieving the symptoms to heal the skin. Treatment depends on the individual person: one treatment approach is not effective for everyone with this condition. Treatment options at UCLA Dermatology may include:

• Moisturizers
• Antibiotics
• Topical (skin-based) corticosteroids
• Ultraviolet light therapy

Contact Us

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (310) 825-6911.