I have diagnosed myself with Schamberg’s disease. This is not for reasons of hypochondria or making things seem worse than they really are – it’s because the doctors I have seen for this mystery rash over the past three years have proved themselves to be utterly useless. The Internet, however, has come through for me yet again. Lovely Internet.
Anyway, knowing how much I’ve valued any scrap of information about this, any personal experience, and any photo of the condition, here’s my experience. I hope it’s useful to someone.
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December 2006: I noticed a small patch about half an inch in diameter on the top of my right foot, near my toes. It looked like a rash, but it was an orange-brown colour, almost rusty; it didn’t fade under pressure; it didn’t itch, and it wasn’t flaky in any way. It looked like it was under my skin. Like every other potential ailment, I completely ignored it. For a year.
It got bigger.
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December 2007: The patch now covered an area a couple of inches square. Still no symptoms – if I never, ever looked at my feet, I would have no idea it was there. However, it now had some brothers forming around my ankle – both sides – and also on top in the crease where my foot joined my leg. I ignored it.
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March 2008: I go to the doctor with an ear infection and while I’m there I get my foot out and ask what’s going on. He looks confused. He diagnoses an allergy to something, most likely to washing powder. We both knew he didn’t have a clue, really, but seeing as I was ignoring it anyway, I didn’t mind.
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June 2008: Brown patch mayhem, as the ‘rash’ spread up my shin – and started to make an appearance on the top of my right foot as well. I decided to give the pharmacist a try, who took me into a little diagnosis room (cupboard), looked at my sandled foot, rubbed his beard, and charged me a lot of money for a very small tube of fungicide cream.
This made no difference.
I went back to the doctor. He pretty much shrugged. It wasn’t itching or causing me any physical distress, so…well, *shrug*, I guess.
~
July 2008: With brown speckled patches now running over both feet, both ankles and both shins, I was starting to get a bit miserable. Still not worried – just miserable. I just hated the way it looked. I tried sun, no sun, no shaving, eczema cream, treating all my shoes and clothes and bedding with anti fungal stuff, and massage. None of it made any difference. I made an effort to see if anything made it worse, and it seemed that after a bath or shower the patches were brighter and had a redder tinge. That didn’t really tell me anything though, as most of me went red in the bath.
I admitted defeat and made an appointment with a doctor. A breakthrough! His diagnosis: I was rusting. Iron was leaking from my blood cells and through my veins, and gravity was making it gather around my ankles and shins.
Slightly dumbfounded, I repeated “I’m rusting?”, while the doctor, satisfied that he had made a diagnosis and was ready for the next patient, printed me out a prescription for a mild steroid cream which I was to apply sparingly every evening.
Well, it seemed promising. Weird, but promising.
~
But something didn’t seem right. I couldn’t accept that I was simply rusting and it was gathering around my lower joints – I had never, ever heard of this happening before. Ever. To anyone. Ever. More importantly, after three weeks of regular use, the steroid cream was doing nothing at all.
I started researching skin conditions online, especially of the feet and lower limbs, clicking on page after page of rashes, sores, fungal infections – with some pretty stomach-turning sights along the way – and searching for every combination of words I could think of to try to find anything to do with leaking blood cells, and rusting skin. No luck whatsoever. In the meantime, the patches seemed to stabilise, but certainly not lessen in any way.
Years passed.
~
March 2010: I was watching a tv show on Channel 4, laptop on my knees as usual, when a woman came on with a skin complaint – nothing like mine (it was a type of psoriasis) but the narrator said something about being able to look up more skin complaints online. Worth a try, I though.
And there it was. I just stumbled across it by chance. Lichen Aureus.
Finally I had something to go on. It didn’t look exactly the same as my condition, but it was the closest I’d seen. Time to do a little more research…
~
I found this page. See the guy’s ankle on the lower right? That’s what mine look like. Reading on, I found the description for Schamberg’s disease. Bingo, I thought. My research switched to that.
More pages, more photos, but I am satisfied that this is the condition I have. And now all I have to do is go back to the doctor and tell him. Maybe. I’m not sure he deserves to know. I’m mad at him for never making a referral to a dermatologist at least, although going on what other people have said, even they shrug and just prescribe steroid creams with the advice that “this won’t work”.
So. Cure? Any hope? No, in a word – certainly not by prescription medicine anyway. There is some research, however, that certain bioflavonoids taken in supplement form may help, as they can strengthen cells and veins. On this basis, today I’ve started taking the generally recommended Quercetin (naturally occurring bioflavonoid) and Bromelain (an enzyme found in pineapple stems that aids absorption) as a combined supplement. I’m taking 1g a day, which seems to be the maximum dose recommended. I’m going to monitor the sexy rusty rash over the next two weeks and will update accordingly…
Oh, and my feet? See below. The patches are darker than they appear, I think the flash lit me up a bit too much. I also have this all up my shins – but my legs are hairy today, so no photos of those, I do have some standards…though admittedly they’re not high enough to actually shave my legs.
UPDATE – 6 MONTHS LATER (WHAT? I’VE BEEN BUSY…)
Well, unfortunately, I never saw a difference in my feet or legs after taking the Quercetin for a month. Maybe you need to take it for a long, long time to help, but it seems quite expensive for an unlikely cure. It doesn’t seem to have gotten any worse in the past six months though.
So that’s me out of ideas. Anyone else got anything?
I have Schamberg's disease... 
I’m 41 – I’ve had this for 11 years now. Similar story as yours only…mine is triggered by standing for long periods and/or alcohol and sun exposure. I guess I’m fortunate that my rash stays at bay but wouldn’t it be nice to go on vacation and lie on the beach with a margarita! Well – I can’t. I tried it and oh, what a mess. Mine is also painful and itchy when it breaks out – it then fades to the rusty spots and then disappears in about a week. So, I’m good as long as I don’t drink, go in the sun or attend any concerts. I also love the fall and winter because I wear compression stockings. I find they actually really help. And as much as I love the summer, my legs do have some staining so there are spots that won’t ever go away. What a dreadful disease eh.
So I guess we have plusses and minuses each – I haven’t worked out any triggers or anything that makes it better/worse, so it’s just there all the time (ALL THE TIME!), but I guess it is painless and I don’t even notice it unless I look at it. But I can’t get my legs or feet out anymore, I hate people seeing it. I have noticed the circulation in my legs is getting worse though – I don’t know if that’s anything to do with the rash.
I don’t think nearly enough research is done on this condition. I’d love some explanations, even if a cure is asking too much.
Thanks for your comment.
after gall bladder surgery, compression stockings on all night- ignored by nurses even tho’ uncomfortable- i developed ugly brown spots on my feet and legs. my foot doctor said- “Compression pushed blood up to the skin and blood dropped back leaving the iron stain in the skin. rust spots from the knees down are ugly. being ignored at the hospital -leaving the machine to do its’ job after i complained of discomfort makes me very angry, If I was a “movie-star” I’d have a lawsuit on the Hsp. Five years later nothing has changed. So much for expensive machines-FOR HSP. PROFIT!
I have a similar story to yours since June 2006 (am 32 year old male). My rusty coloured marks started on ankles then went to shins, where now are worst (ankles have cleared up pretty much).
Dermatologists weren’t much cop but did do a biopsy and it confirmed ‘Lichen Aureus’ initially, although 2nd Dermatologist said more likely to be Schamberg’s disease (although neither knew much more than me using the internet to be honest).
Unlike the first comment left, mine actually does improve with sun exposure (holidays etc) but agree that standing for long periods and alcohol consumption definitely makes marks look a lot worse.
I did try PUVA light treatment for some 15 sessions at great expense (NHS doesn’t cover as benign condition) and it definitely made a marked improvement, although as my marks are more severe than yours in colour, they didn’t lighten enough to be cured or disappear enough to say was truly effective, but your spots seem to be less dark in colour and more evenly spread over a larger area so you would probably get a more noticeable result I reckon.
I am taking the following supplements which think help slightly, again one that strengthens capillary walls including vitamin C and bioflavoids such as Rutin called ‘Colleginase’.
http://www.yourhealthfoodstore.co.uk/personal-health/collagen/biocare-colleginase-veg-caps
Am also applying the following cream called ‘Auriderm’ which helps your body process the ‘rusty’ Hemosiderin deposits in skin more quickly, although will obviously only help get rid of deposits in skin rather than stopping any leakage. I think this would work well for yours as looking at photos, the markings are even in colour and over a larger area, so a lot less deposition to clear than mine.
http://www.skin-etc.com/auvagel.html
I did start using compression stockings at one stage but got bored of wearing them, but I might start trying again as they did make a slight difference..
Again, same as you, clutching at straws really and hoping that someone will come up with more answers via internet at some stage…the below patent request did look interesting though, albeit at an experimental stage by looks of it..
http://www.freshpatents.com/Hydroxypyridinones-for-the-local-treatment-of-skin-microcirculatroy-disorders-dt20060622ptan20060135448.php
Thanks for your comment, I will look into Auriderm and see if it makes a difference. In the past few months the ‘rust’ does seem to have a faded a bit which makes me sure it is sun, or at least heat, that makes it worse.
Was diagnosed with Pulmonary Embolism in June 2010, and shortly thereafter starting taking warfarin, i noticed red blood like spots appearing on my ankles and lower legs. Went to Doc, unsure what is was. In the past 2 months the redness has now changed to a rusty colour. I was told that i have Schumbergs disease this week. No cure, although to take Vit C and use cortisone cream, in need. Can there be an association between warfarin and this condition?
@Tessa
I would imagine that Warfarin would make a difference as it thins your blood and therefore would make it easier for blood to pass through the capillary walls when ordinarily wouldn’t = rusty ‘hemosiderin’ deposits in skin once body clears the blood.
I’d imagine that as your Schamberg’s has been set off by a medication, that it will improve once you have stopped taking (if that is possible to do). Aside from that maybe you could take the capillary wall strengthening supplements as mentioned in my thread above which might help slow/stop leakage?
I also had PE in Dec 2013. On Warfarin for 1 month+ now and getting rusty patches between my fingers in the webbing on one hand. Did you ever find out either the cause of your PE or the cause of your skin discoloration?
never taken Warfarin and I have rusty ankles extending approx half way up my calves.
I have Schambergs as well 😦 I’m 22 & I’ve had it since my 18th birthday. I bought Auriderm & it’s not helping much. Also, I purchased the ‘Colleginase’ but I haven’t received it since its coming from the UK & I live in the US. Its been a few weeks now. I’m hoping it comes soon. My schambergs is all over my legs. For some reason, the rusty spots clear up on my thighs but not my ankles. I’ve tried everything from Grape Seed Extract to Vitamin K & nothing seems to work. I wish there was a cure for us. 😦
@Monique
Yes unfortunately there doesn’t seem to be any ‘quick fix’ with this condition and even the improvement I have seen with Auriderm and Colleginase will, at its present rate of improvement, probably take 3-5 years more for the marks to be barely visible (has been 5 years since they started). The good thing is that they do and are improving, just very very slowly, with occasional relapses.
Fingers crossed that scientific advances bring some more answers to what seems to be a baffling condition.
Don’t get too despondent though, chin up and am sure that more answers will be drip fed through the internet over time.
I believe I also have Shambergs Disease based on all of my own research and none form the medical world. Guys, how frustrating is this. I am also trying to fight the fight and up until now I have not come across a blog with ‘same sufferers’. It feels good to share our stories; started for me approximately 5-6 years ago on my lower left ankle. Originally appeared as a very small rash and now has progressed slowly up the same leg and there are small hints of it on the right lower leg.
It was also suggested to me that I use a prescribed cortisone cream which of course did very little; my own research has led me to a cream called ‘arnica’ and ‘Vitamin k’ cream as well as Vitamin C. The vitamin K seems to be mentioned a lot although I think in needs to be used frequently for a long period of time- something I have not done to this point. I need to buy it on line as I have previously purchased it from Whole Foods, (US) and it is not cheap- $27 usd for a tube that last 1-2 weeks.
If we can figure it out we will be all wealthy!!!! I do believe it may be associated with possibly blood pressure, standing, (although my job requires me to sit a lot???), food, (preservatives and food coloring) and as someone mentioned drugs. I am a very active 45 year old male and I regularly take antioxidants, a multi vitamin, pro-biotics, vitamin c and I am a creature of habit regarding my diet, (healthy and strict). Now I have for approximately 20-25 years been involved of some form of weight lifting and I do wonder if I have over the years exerted the vascular extremities in my legs which in turn has weakened to blood vessels…who knows, talk about trying to rack my brain to find out what could be causing it. I guess I could look at a process of elimination and try that approach; what a drag though.
My next stop is a Homeopathic Doctor, I am completely done with the regular Doctors, (I have been to a very good dermatologist also). Whatever you do don’t give up, try to control it and more importantly the best healer we have in our thoughts…positive affirmations over and over again can do wonders. I am on a mission, I will spend the $$ to see if Homeopathic medicine is the way to go and I will report back.
Interesting…my name is lance and I am 45 y/o with very similar story. I was however, stung by “Fire Ants” on both legs and the condition started shortly thereafter. The Derm said, he thought the “venom” may have caused the onset. I have not been able to find any info regarding (insect bites), but I have wondered if there could in fact, be a connection. Anyway, I’m still guarded when it comes to wearing shorts, as I have been questioned by family and friends about it many times over the years. I have found no cure despite trying all kinds. It is a rare condition in comparison to the norm and “most physicians” do not even know what it is…including Derms! It’s scary that the medical pros are so ignorant about so many conditions!
I had a ‘Eureka’ moment only yesterday when I also diagnosed myself with Schamberg’s disease. My rash began 30 years ago on my lower shins not long after the birth of my 2nd child. I had several other symptoms too so my doc suspected an over-active thyroid & thought the rash was pretibial myxodema. But blood tests were negative so I just got on with my life & ignored it because it didn’t cause any problems. It was very very slow growing for years but over the last 3 or 4 years it’s spread up to my knees on both legs, back & front. I have showed my current GP a couple of times while I was seeing him for another problem but nothing was said. I only wear trousers when going out but during the summer at home I wear cropped jeans. Lately both my children have been making comments like ‘oh mum, look at your rash now, you need to go to the doctor’s.’ So out of curiosity I shall go next week. I have a great doctor who doesn’t mind me doing Internet research so I shall take my ‘provisional diagnosis with me!’ I’ll let you know how I get on.
Loved your blog about this littlebitlost.
Yes do let me know how you get on, I’ve given up! Interesting you mention thyroid, I’m being treated for thyroid cancer at the moment, I did ask if the rash might be linked but got lots of shrugs from the specialist, so maybe not!
It took me a year to go back to my GP about it but got the diagnosis, and it is Schamberg’s. He suggested I put my feet up more. Eh?!
If only… Interesting that according to patient.co.uk – some associated diseases are: Diabetes mellitus, Rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, Thyroid abnormalities. Thyroid & possible RA could be my problem then. I wasn’t on any medication when it started so I guessed it had to be an immune system problem.
Hello,
I read about horse chestnut on the internet and it says “its a valuable source of bioflavonoids, including the subclass of flavonoids known as proanthocyanidins, renowned for their antioxidant activity. When taken internally, research has shown horse chestnut’s constituents to strengthen the capillaries (the minute blood vessels that connect arteries and veins), support normal blood flow, and support the normal exchange of fluids through cell membranes.” So I bought some horse chestnut cream and I will let you know if it helps out. It also contains lots of other ingredients like grape seed extract too so maybe it can help us! 🙂
Even i have the same issue with the rashes. Did anyone come across any proper treatment on this.plz do update.
I too have this ‘rusting’ on both feet and ankles though funnily enough have none on the top of both feet. I have had this for a number of years, sometimes worse than others. My doctor actually suggested that it was because I was overweight and the pressure on my feet was causing the smaller blood vessels to burst and loss of weight would improve the situation. Wouldn’t mind but I am not that overweight
My spots started on my left ankle before progressing to pretty much cover the top of my left foot. I, too, asked my doctor about it and received a shrug. I showed this to another doctor who told me it was bruising related to my previously broken ankle. He told me this more than a year after my broken ankle healed so I didn’t buy this response. It has now spread to my right foot. I have begun fighting prediabetes so I was afraid this was related to neuropathy. I lost 14 pounds and lowered by blood glucose 13 points but the spots are still there. My doctor said he would send me to a dermatologist if I wanted but he warned me that my insurance might not pay since this was a purely cosmetic problem (no itching or discomfort, just ugly spotted feet). My mother has vitaligo which is a loss of pigment. Schamberg’s appears to be hyper pigmentation. I’m still researching. I’m sort of used to this type of problem. About 16 years ago, I had to figure out some really strange symptoms. It took me 2 years of research but I finally diagnosed it as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, an auto-immune problem with tons of weird symptoms. I was tested for a multitude of illnesses with negative responses to everything; I wonder if this might also be an auto-immune problem too. Well, time to hit the internet for research again. It is nice to know I’m not alone.
I have had this problem for a few years now. The ‘rusting’ as people call it is the iron deposits from the blood cells that have ‘leaked’ from the caplliaries. I have seen my doctor who seemed clueless and I have arranged to see a dermotologist. Perhaps a skin biopsy might actually find what actual disease I have. There are variants but generally its called Purpura or Progressive Pigmented Purpura dermatoses. This is quite an unusual problem which is difficult to treat. First thing that needs to be questioned is why the capillaries are weakening in the first place. The second is finding out a way to get rid of the ugly iron deposits that blemish the skin. Having done some research on the internet some say the capillaries become weak after some sort of viral infection. Obviously as you get old your tissues naturally thin out. Personally I don’t think being overweight or bad diet is the cause of the problem – it just happens. I myself have started to eat fruit and veg rich in vitamins thats good for tissue repair ie ribofavinoids and vitamin c, red apples are good and oranges but there are others if you look on the internet. I also take plenty of exercise. Also common sense says you shouldn’t eat too many iron rich foods? Natural sunlight might also help? Also I find non-elasticated pure cotton socks helps (no itching and better circulation.) There is also the psychological side of the disease especially for younger people. Lets face it there is nothing worse than having a medical problem which your doctor knows little about and is frustrating to cure.
I have had Schaumbergs for 4 years. I think that it started with taking Warfarin. My recent research and some blood tests showed high Hemoglobin… high red blood cells and high Iron content in the blood. I recently researched the Iron content of wine and Whiskey. BINGO. I love my white wine and my Bourbon even more. Both are very high in Iron…. very high. From what I have found out is that your body only uses very little iron.. your body tends to hoard Iron and the only way to get rid of it and get it down to a lower and safer level is to take certain chelated chemicals and also routine “blood letting at the blood bank”. OH….. and cutting out the wine and Bourbon… bummer.
I am a light skinned black lady and am not overweight, i developed a darker leather or rubber like layer on top both my feet up to my ankles. There is more of it on the right foot than the left foot. Drs i went too were buffled by it and couldnt prescribe anything as its neither painful nor itchy. If i knew how to upload a picture here i would but alas me i dont. I have to say the internet has been my saviour through a lot of things. Here’s hoping it does the same now. HELP. Its so embarrassing!
I have it too and am in warfarin. Just ugly, no itching. Steroid helps just slightly. I can’t believe so many are afflicted yet still no one in the medical field is looking into it. Trying to paste Photos.
Hello to all. Well, I have the same ugly/rusty looking spots, in my ankles, as many of you have described. No discomfort, pain or itching, but just disgusting rusty looking spots in the feet and ankles. They started exactly about a year ago and I’d say they gotten a bit better but have not completely faded. I have not had a recent illness or taken any kind of medication, I exercise regularly, eat healthy, and should probably loose a few lbs but nothing major. I also like to run (4-5 miles every other day) I’ve run all my life and someone mentioned that it was contributed to running. So, I stop my daily runs hoping that the rusty spots would go away, but no luck! 😦 I am now looking into natural healing. I will come and report here if I find an answer—-I miss running! 😦
Rosie – don’t give up running! If you enjoy it, do it. I don’t run but my legs are still covered in the unsightly things.
Thank you all for your recent comments! I have been meaning to post a follow up for a while. My spots have dramatically reduced over the past few years. They haven’t disappeared completely but there is a definite improvement.
On the down side, I am wondering if I’ve found a connection. Somebody else has mentioned a link with thyroid problems. Well January 2011 I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and the tumour was so large it could have been there years. No specialist has said to me it has anything to do with the rash (I’m yet to find anyone to definitely diagnose it as Schamberg’s either) but I’m not persuing it as it is clearing up a bit. The removal of my thyroid and the subsequent treatment unfortunately also triggered type 2 diabetes at only 27. So for the past year or so I have been taking thyroxine and metformin, and the rash has started to disappear. This could be a coincidence of course!
I think I have just solved the mystery of my husband’s spots on his legs. What I’m wondering is, what were the signs of thyroid cancer for you? Cancer runs in his family (due to a lot of environmental and possibly genetic factors, I’m sure), along with diabetes. As far as we know he doesn’t have either one of these, but he isn’t especially healthy for his age (30). He is working on it and I am very particular about our diet at home (mostly organic, no GMO and very little sugar/processed food), but he has always had some weird metabolism things. Like he is ALWAYS hot.
He doesn’t eat especially high iron foods, so I’m more apt to think that there is a problem with the blood vessels themselves, vs. too much iron in the blood.
Thanks for your experience!
Hi Sara
I didn’t have any noticeable symptoms of thyroid cancer, because it apparently doesn’t affect the actual function of the gland. A small chunk of it ended up spreading to a lymph node in my neck, which caused it to swell, eventually becoming noticeable in my neck. I didn’t have any symptoms of diabetes either, it was caught almost immediately as I was having a full blood test screening every few months. The surgery, removal of thyroid gland, weight gain and just general stress triggered it, they believe, rather than it be a lifestyle or age trigger. The spots have definitely faded dramatically but are still there – I think it will always be a mystery.
I would suggest a thyroid function test for your husband if he’s always hot, that can be down to a thyroid imbalance – but normally over active.
Thanks for passing by!
About 10-15yrs ago I had some test done because I thought I had intermittent claudication; pain, cramps, fatigue in my legs after walking a short distance. They did a bunch of tests including putting some big blood pressure cuffs on my legs. While I was there I asked about the rust spots on my feet and around my ankles. The doctor explained that I had incompetent venous valve. He explained the our arteries and veins are made up of small segments with a valve on each end. Each time our heart pumps the valves open and close allowing the blood to flow from one segment to the other. In those of us with “leaky valves” the valve at the rear of the segment does not close completely and it allows blood to flow backwards into the previous segment. Eventually blood fills up and begins to leak into the tissues. As our bodies reabsorb the blood the iron is left behind and causes the rust spots. My doctor prescribed support stockings. They seem to help. Makes my legs feel better and not so swelled or fatigued at the end of the day.
I think I have the same thing! My skin has always been a little on the red side, so mibe doesn’t show up as much. Well, at least I know now not to go see my doctor.
Hey,I am 14 and I have Schambergs disease.Its horrible.I wish there were a cure
Hello, I feel for all of you. I’ve had the same condition for a couple of years now and was wondering if anyone had any updates?? I’ve put a comment here a couple of years ago regarding the ‘rusty’ spots on my feet and ankles hoping to find an answer, but no….to this day nothing has changed! 😦 —And I’ve tried several natural suplements, creams, teas, massage, etc but no luck!! —I was hoping that this condition would go away the same way as it came ‘without a reason’!! but the rusty/dark spots are there and I feel I’m even getting more now….it’s sooo frustrating and embarrasing since they look like dirt…agghhh!!!!
I was never diagnosed with Schamberg’s, just rust spots from leaky veins. After wearing compression hose everyday for about a year the spots have significantly decreased.
Necrobiosis lipoidica I got this off websearch as well, have had exact same symps as yours for about 7 years+
Anyway thanks for ypur wondeful research, all the best , art
When you apply pressure, does it fade?
I was just diagnosed with this today by a dermatologist. I first started getting it about a year ago when I did a TON of walking in the LasVegas heat after sitting by the pool. Derm said to wear compression socks. It may go away, it may not. Mine is on both shins. I have started using sunless tanner when I’m going to be showing my legs. It doesn’t completely cover them, but it mutes them a lot.
I have Schamberg’s disease as well. I am a 46 year old female. This has affected me for the last 4 years. It has recently gotten worse. I’ve tried many things in hopes of ridding me of this embarrassing disease. I had it disappear once in the last 4 years with it only to return and get worse. I do feel pain and itching as it progresses up my legs. I have spoken to my dermatologist and she said it is bad genetics. I wish there was a cure. No shorts or capris for me and definitely no sandals.
Oh Robin…I know exactly what you’re going through 😦 –I’ve asked many doctors and they all give me different answers, but I know they’re just guessing. One thing they all agree on is that there’s no reason why people get it and there’s no cure either. I don’t wear shorts or capri pants either for the same reason. I do wear sandals in the summer since I found a cover up (sort of make-up) that is waterproof and I’m able to cover some of it but not completely. In my case I do not have pain, itching or discomfort only the ugly dark spots on my feet and ankles. I’ve tried many natural home remedies and, at times, I feel the spots are fading, but then other times I feel they’re spreading. The only option I haven’t tried is meditation and prayer…so, that’s what I’m doing lately…Good luck to you Robin.
Diagnosed last year, researched a lot on google andwhat causes it?what cures it? how to control it ? has left with one option that is to live with it.:((
I have this too… I had a biopsy about 6 months ago when the “rust” patches didn’t go away. I am a 48 year old female and have taught fitness classes for years. I was told that exercise contributes to the issue. I also have poor circulation. I am wondering if anyone knows if massage makes the condition worse?
Dani, I feel your pain. —I’ve made comments in this blog before. I have the ugly rusty/brown spots around my ankles and feet for the past couple of years. I was also told by doctors that it was contributed to exercise particularly running. I’ve run all my life and would average 3-5 miles every other day. So, they told me to stop running, which I did, but the dark spots didnt’ go away…I gained weight instead!! — then I went to see a different doctor and this one said the rusty spots were due to weight gain..(.figure!!!) –anyway, I am now trying natural medicine. I also have poor circulation, but have not try massage yet.
Hi i am thinking of getting a tattoo to cover up the rust would anyone know if this would be safe
I am planning on doing the same and have had one tattoo done and it healed just fine. I plan on covering the rest up with more! For other people looking for a way to cover it up… tattoo artist can match the ink to your skin tone so you can cover the spots and no one can tell you have a tattoo.
Also looking into this…any update all these years later?
Hi 49 year female. My Dr told me overweight’s the problem!!!!! Lost 10kg but it
spread out more (feet and just underneath my knees). I am so depressed
and feel like dirt. Goal bladder removed, hysterectomy and have other problems as
sebasiast cysts on my scalp and large cyst growing out my right kidney.
Hi Everyone,
Thank you for your comments. The information is useful. I will try some of the suggestions and hopefully it will assist. I have had a varicose vein problem for many years. About 3-4 years ago I decided to do something about the appearance of the varicose veins that were the most significant around my ankles. I had sclerotherapy on two occasions. The treatment focussed significantly on the veins around the ankles. Unfortunately in the 6 months post treatment a rusty brown rash appeared on the inside area of my ankles / very low leg region. The left is worse than the right. I knew that a side effect of sclerotherapy was brown pigmentation and I put the rash down to a side effect as it certainly wasn’t there in any capacity before sclerotherapy.
After about 1 year I decided to return to the sclerotherapy centre to show them and see if they could remove it. They noted that it wasn’t there prior to the sclerotherapy but to my surprise they didn’t think it was the usual brown pigmentation that can be a side effect from sclerotherapy. They suggested I return to the vascular specialist.
The rash isn’t itchy and causes my no issues expect for the very bad appearance of it. It prevents me wearing shorts / dresses unless I wear stockings or use heavy make up on my lower legs. I recently saw the vascular specialist which is now about 2 years since the rash developed. I have shown many other Drs over the years but none of them have had a glue as to what it is, even a few dermatologists haven’t had any ideas. The vascular specialist was puzzled. He was the one who referred me for the sclerotherapy and when he referred to his notes and photos he also could see that there was no sign of this rusty brown rash before sclerotherapy. However from his experience he didn’t think it is the usual brown pigmentation side effect that he would sometimes see with a side effect from sclerotherapy. He then told me that from his experience it resembles schamergs disease.
I then searched schambergs disease and that is exctly what it is. The vascular specialist said that it could spread although now for many years it is just confined to the inside of the left leg with only a very slight spec on the right lower leg / ankle.
It is shocking that this disease is still so unknown and so many Drs have no idea about it. I’m thankful that the vascular specialist identified it. Now I will try some of the above suggestions and see if anything works.
In my case it seems that the sclerotherapy injections triggered it and the vascular specialist has told me to never have any sclerotherapy again.
Just wanted to know, does anybody have other problems related to Schambergs Disease?
For example ,feet at times feeling hot and uncomfortable?
I need to put mine in a tub of cool water to bring down their temperature!
So hope a cure comes soon?:(
Hi Glenn,
Yes…lately I noticed that my feet are either very cold (I live in a cold and humid area) or uncomfortably hot–almost like a burning sensation.
I’m so, very unhappy about this and I too wish they find a cure or something to explain why I got this. Sometimes I wonder if nutrition has something to do with it so, I’m experimenting with eating different meals, healthy juicing, staying away from sugar etc…so far I haven’t seen a difference.
Soon I’m going to try a ‘liver-cleansing’ —
Good luck,
Thanks Susie for your reply.I am sure there are a lot more out there that have hot or warm foot temperatures relating to this disease.
I intend to go to a Chinese Herbalist soon, as I think Asian Medicine may hold the key?
All the best!…..Glenn
Hi Glen and Susie,
Thanks for your comments. I haven’t really noticed my feet being hot or cold but overall I have a temperature regulation problem. I always feel much cooler than other people. It may not be related to this condition as I had this c temperature problem long before I developed Schamberg’s Disease.
I have however noticed that since I started increased exercise and increased protein in my diet that the rash is worsening whereas before this it had remained the same for a few years.
My specialist recommended me to wear venoscan stockings and I try to where possible but in 40 degree heat it is often not possible.
Has anyone else found that their rash area worsens with exercise?
I really hope a cure can be found.
Hi Annika,
Yes I used to do a lot of walking, which seemed to make it worse!
I have had this disease now for around 10 years!
No pain associated with it, and no feet swelling, but just increase in temperature around both feet.
It sure is a bit of a mystery?
Hi Glen,
It sure is a mystery.
Mine came on a few years ago after sclerotherapy.
Interesting that you found it increased after walking because that is what I’m finding too.
Hope you get some relief soon for the increased temperature in your feet.
My feet feel hot and burning a lot. They have a tendency to swell during warmer months. Along with the rusty spots I have red itchy bumps much like mosquito bites. I spray them with Zytrel Ivy-Dry Super. It seems to help with my itching and is not as hard on the skin as the cortisone cream perscribed to me by the dermatologist. I was diagnosed with Schamberg’s Disease 2 years ago and it comes and goes.
Hi Harriet,
I tend to get a hotness on the feet, but not at all times.I have no idea if this is related to Shambergs Disease or not.I too have to put my feet in a bowl of cold water.This gives immediate relief, and is a real God-send!…I have resigned myself to having this condition now, and no longer worry about it.Although if a cure does come, I will certainly use it!:)
I hope all goes well with you.
Hello Everyone. I have just diagnosed myself with Schamberg’s Disease. I have the rust coloured spots on both my feet. They began after I had my first child in 2007, and I was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism shortly after. They have never concerned me too much, but lately I have been researching the condition, which at first I thought was Petechiae, but my spots are not red at all. They are brown, and seem to darken after I bath. When I was reading up on Petechiae, I found that it could be a symptom of leukemia. Is this the same with Schamberg’s, or is it a different disease altogether? Is this something I should worry about?
Hi Kim,
Schambergs Disease is not life threatening, if that is indeed what you have.Use Google images to show you what the feet look like, and see if they match your own.I have no pain associated with this, and it has been with me now some 10 years.Many theories abound as to what causes it?…Western Medicine is at a loss to diagnose the problem, so I intend to go to Asian medicine instead….All the best!…Glenn
Hi Kim,
I don’t think Schamber’s Disease is life threatening either. In my case I do not feel any pain or itching, but lately I noticed that, at times, my feet get extremely hot just like Glen’s.
That is really bothersome since my feet are usually cold and then they turn very hot, sort of, like having ‘feet-hot flashes’ lol —(I’m sure I can find some humor in this annoying disease) …aside from that is just very embarrassing to have rusty, dark spots since they look like dirt. I usually avoid using sandals or open shoes, but that will be very hard during the summer especially since having ‘feet-hot-flashes- lately… 😦
Good luck Kim!
Soon after I started taking Warfarin for clots in my left leg, diaganosed in Feb., I spotted a reddish rash on my ankle. Then the rash appeared on both legs up to about calf level, i mentioned it to the nurse who was monitoring my blood weekly. She said I should see the doctor who I was able to see right after that. He just seemed puzzled over it and didn’t think it was caused by the medicine and told me that it wouldn’t hurt me to have it. It hasn’t moved upward–so far, but I took advantage of an already scheduled yearly check with my dermatologist to ask him about it. He says it is Shamberg’s disease and he said it wasn’t caused by the clots and probably not the medicine. I didn’t think to ask him how long it will last, but after reading info online, I realize I may have it forever!! I had a similar experience with “spots” years ago when doctor put me on a thiazide (water pill) for BP. These spots were larger and more purple. Doctor, again, didn’t have a clue so I went to a dermatologist who said it was caused by the thiazide. Back to original doctor who prescribed a beta blocker for BP. Immediately the spots faded and were gone soon, so it was that medicine. I think it’s too much a coincidence that these spots started after a new medicine to not be caused by it. Hopefully, within 3-6 months, I will be off the Warfarin and they will go away. Just glad I like wearing pants most of the time!!!
After suffering with Schamberg’s for the best part of 2 years now, I finally got to see a Dermatologist at a Private Clinic about 3 months ago now. After doing a biopsy and confirming it, my doctor recommended I use photolight therapy in the form of UV-B. He had read a study in the [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology], which recommended this form of therapy. I was able to purchase a handheld UV-B Narrowband lamp from Amazon and have been using for the last 8 weeks. I use the lamp 3 times per week, and on the days I don’t use the lamp, I apply Auriderm XO cream. — when i started the treatment, I was not expecting any noticeable results.
Thing is, my rash around my ankles, which had spread to my shins, has all but gone. The tiny red dots [cayenne pepper spots] disappeared about 3 weeks after using UV-B lamp…. and the rust lesions are also dissipating. I’d say that 90% of the rash has faded. I am totally amazed at speed and efficacy of the treatment. I hope that after more use of the lamp and cream my rash will completely fade into oblivion.
This has recently changed my life. During the recent warm spell, I have been able to wear flip-flops again! Its amazing how the little things in life can have such an affect on your life.
Please, all, look into this. And i hope it can bring someone else success.
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1468-3083.2010.03806.x/abstract;jsessionid=52D605420A3F44E7625E27C269F7725C.f02t04
This is the link to the study in the Journal of European Academy of Dermatology.
Hi Emma,
This is wonderful news and thank you for sharing it. Would it be possible for you to provide the details of your dermatology clinic.
Hope the improvement s continue. It is great news
Annika
Thanks Emma…sounds promising…Could you please upload results in pictures?
Thanks.
Glenn
Emma, I’ve also seen improvements using UVB. Though know nothing of Auriderm. Looking this up I notice that the Vitamin K oxide in the cream strengthens the capillary walls!! Is this available on the NHS?
Could you please let me know how long each treatment is with the UVB narrowband light? I am going to try these treatments. Thanks!
Hi , can you give me more info about the lamp UV that you used? A picture, a name. some characteristics . …And how did you use it pls ? I am tired searching and trying everything with no result till now. God bless you
Hello,
The lamp that I have is KN-4003 UV Phototherapy. I purchased it directly from the manufacturer Kernel Medical, but I think you can also find it on Amazon.com. I ordered from Kernel to make sure I got the correct item.
The lamp is effective, but did not resolve my condition entirely. My arms are 95% spot free, but I still have spots on the legs and lower trunk. They were reduced significantly, but not entirely.
The lamp that I got has a timer. I started with 10 seconds and gradually increased to 60 seconds. I move the lamp over the affected area and apply UV light for 60 seconds. Then I move the lamp to the next area. It takes time. I believe there are other lamps with bigger surface coverage, but I guess they would be more expensive.
I still have no idea what the cause of my condition was.
Hope you find this info helpful. Good luck!
Did you see my second post, everyone…? https://littlebitlost.wordpress.com/2014/08/21/its-gone/
Hey! This is great news! Congrats.
It sure does give the rest of us hope!
Hey Guys and Girls, I am a 16 year old boy and I recently stumbled upon this website after diagnosing myself with this Shaumberg’s disease (nice), and I am struggling to find out what’s causing it. I first found it in March this year and noticed it had spread from my feet to my fingers aswell, there were also bright red hives (which I think some of you might call a relapse) . The dots started off as a deep red colour and slowly turned brown and started to fade away. In the meantime I went to the doctors and she diagnosed me with having petechiae and sent me to get emergency bloods taken (ooh) at A&E, after all the torture of waiting for hours to get the blood test done and waiting for the results, they came back negative (they also tested me for leukemia which was also negative), so they sent me home. And after a few days they dissappeared. I did some research and found something called Gloves and Sock syndrome, which looks a little similar.
I hadn’t had it since, until this month, where I noticed pale brown spots, a couple of blanching pink spots and a faint purple bit on my heel that looked like a spiders web. I have also been experiencing really dry skin on my forehead, elbows and especially around my mouth where there is hyperpigmentation.
The first time I found this hyperpigmentation was last September when I had started to use protein shakes, I went to the doctors and she prescribed me hydrocortisone cream. Since it was a steroid cream, I didn’t use it considering the skin around the mouth is already very thin. Then a week later, it faded away on it’s own, only to come back last month when I started using a drug called ‘Apetamin’ which also contains proteins in it, especially one called ‘Lysine’ which was in both the shakes and this. So I’m thinking that they are maybe both connected. Btw, I was taking these to gain weight, recently I gained 20 pounds in 1 month.
Like most other people I do regularly stand for long periods of time, waiting 20 minutes nearly everyday for the bus.
I hope there is still hope, here are some pictures of both my hyperpigmentation and spots when they had flared up in March, my skin is naturally an olive colour: http://s723.photobucket.com/user/CaspianFS/profile/
Hi Caspian,
Having looked at your photos, I am doubtful that you have Shaumbergs disease!…Yours appears to be more of a skin allergy related to maybe Hives, or to some food disorder?
At 16 too, seems far to young for it as well?
Also be very careful about gaining weight too fast at 16. Your body has not full developed yet, and it could have negative results in many areas!….best regards, Glenn
Thanks for the reply, it’s a bit of a relief to find out it looks more like an allergy. If it’s not schaumbergs then surely they have something in common. I hope everyone finds a cure for this!
Hi Caspian,
I agree with Glenn. From looking at your pictures it does look more like you may have a skin allergy rather than schaumbergs disease.
You don’t know how we wish that someone finds a cure/answer to this strange illness…and no, it doesn’t seem to be life threatening but rather extremely annoying since the dark/rusty patches look like dirt…yeah, horrible!!!
Good luck with you condition. I hope it goes away soon!!
Rosie
I was diagnosed with Schambergs disease about a year ago. It is getting larger and covers about a 6in x 1in patch on my right shin.
Emma, I am wondering how many minutes you use the narrowband UVB light each time you do a treatment. Could you please let me know. I am thinking about purchasing one to see if it works for me.
Hi kala, at the beginning, I only used the narrowband lamp in a very limited way – 30 seconds on each area prone to the lesions. I used the lame 3 days per week, and each session I increased the time by about 4 seconds. So in week 1, I kept it at 30, 34, 38 seconds. I did this until about week 4. Thereafter I never went above 1min30 for each area. And remember to leave a day between treatments. The uvb lamp can burn you, so please use with caution and use the protective shades that come with the lamp. Update me if you go ahead with the treatment and of course talk to your doctor before trying this.
I have the same rusty patches on my lower leg. Dermatologist said I had leaky blood vessels and that I should stay away from NSAIDs. As much as I hate the look of these spots which run from foot to knee, I have decided to “own” it. My legs are healthy and I refuse to stop exercising. Fit legs with rusty spots look better than unfit legs with the same spots. I wear shorts, my bathing suit, and short little dresses that all show off this strange discoloration. What helped me most with coming to terms with this was thinking about what I would think if I saw someone with my legs walking down the street. I wouldn’t think anything other than…birthmark, trauma, etc. and on my day would go. Nobody is perfect. As much as I do not like having this, I refuse to let it dictate how I live my life. If someone finds my rusty skin offensive, then that is their issue to deal with. My legs have character! Ha ha. Acceptance is key. I also talk to friends so they know what it is and may be of help to others. Thanks to all who posted. Beauty comes from the inside. Shoulders back, head held high, God made me and He does not make mistakes. So what if I’m a little rusty.😜
Hi DH, I like your attitude!:)
DH—‘so what if I’m a little rusty’ — ohhhh I love that!! and I too love your attitude 🙂 — I wish I had that much self confidence. Thank you for the encouragement I will continue repeating to myself ‘so what if I little rusty’ lol 🙂 🙂
Thanks Glenn and Rosie! It’s always nice to get positive feedback. Rosie, the hardest part about letting the world see my “rust” is walking out the door. Once you’re out there, it’s out there with you. I have my days where I stare at it and I can see the new spots cropping up. The dermatologist actually said I was a bit of a mystery because my spots are so dark. I hope that my words are a help to you. Also, my husband says that my first spot is starting to fade. That one has been there over a year. Only time will tell at this point. I’ll keep posting…hopefully with good news.
Hi DH, just remember there are people in this world who have injuries or scars that run a lot deeper than ours!…..I have a friend who suffered third degree burns to their arms and face…..believe me, they live with a lot more than a bit of rusting!…Anyway, stay positive, and embrace who you are are!:)
Mine look pretty bad and just keep getting worse with time. They started when I was about 20, and looked like freckles. For the last 13 years my various doctors have been useless in this regard. They sent me for pointless and expensive scans and could never tell me anything. One thought I had cancer! At 33 my shins and ankles look really bad. I’ve noticed that most people I wrestle (BJJ nogi) don’t want to touch my feet, and some don’t want to wrestle me at all. I’d be OK with it, and “own it” if I knew there was no cure, but it just seems like there should be a way to fix “rust spots under skin”, and I don’t like having this wrong with me if there is a possible fix. I’m athletically active, so that’s no cure, but who knows, maybe it helps.
Tanks people for posting all the tips
Emma’s treatment seems like it makes sense.
Also Vitamin K and staying away from NSAIDs sounds like worth while tips.
Hi David. That is tough to hear that people don’t want to wrestle with you because of your feet. Do they think it’s contagious? I tell people about my skin discoloration so that I can put their minds at ease and also to maybe help others who may have the same thing. I know BJJ is a very close contact sport so I’m sure people worry about contagiousness. Do you have a few people at your gym that are in the know as far as your rust spots? I guess mine just look like trauma so in a gym environment I wouldn’t expect anyone to think twice. I will keep asking my dermatologist to give me helpful hints. Last visit they suggested Vitamin C.
Working on my referral to the dermatologist today, but I’m confident that this is my issue. I noticed it 2 yrs ago and it has progressed over time; top of feet, ankles, and lower shin/calf. I am so glad I found this page! I feel better already just knowing I’m not the only one. It has been worrying the hell out of me for the last week. Not sure why or how this developed, but I’ve been on blood pressure meds for about 8 yrs now. I drink beer in the evening and I’m about 15 lbs overweight. I was extremely active in my youth and 20’s. I’m 39.
My 31yr old daughter was diagnosed a few months ago and very relieved to find out it was nothing life threatening. She was prescribed a high potency steroid cream to use in a flare up with excellent effect. All blood tests were normal which is important as other causes of rash must be excluded. Daughters lesions are pre- tibial with no foot involvement. All the best to you all!
I think I have schambergs – mine started out the same as the first photos but has got worse.
I am over weight which probably doesn’t help.
I have started taking vitamin c and wearing compression socks at night so I’ll see how that goes.
I work at a desk all day and sometimes have a pressure point on the bottom of my foot when I stand up.
I too have noticed it’s worse at the end of the day (after being on my feet all day) so I try to sit with my feet raised when I can (like watching TV)
And I try to do gentle exercise, nothing pounding on the feet.
People do look at it but I think a lot of people think it’s fake tan. Wish it would go away or at least fade.
It almost disappears when I go on holiday – I might look in to buying a uvb lamp.
It’s nice to know I’m not alone 😎
I may have the answer for all. I had the exact same condition for about 10 years but simply donated blood I’ve over the course of a year at a local blood bank and its now completely cleared up. I’ve been diagnosed with too much iron in my system. Give it a go!
NSAIDS can cause leaky capillaries. Alcohol and other blood thinners can do the same. I’ve seen an increase in what my doctor calls “tattooing” after using higher levels of NSAIDS. Dr. states that there is nothing he knows of that will clear up the spots, but apparently, some of you have found some solutions. I am much more concerned about internal damage than cosmetic damage. I assume there is some internal damage so I am trying to cut out NSAIDS and cut down on alcohol.
Hi. Just discovered this site and it made interesting reading. I have had the condition for 16 years and am now in my mid sixties. Mine started exactly like an early contributor with a brownish red patch near the toes on one foot which eventually has spread up to the knee area on both legs, with the text book speckles and rusty patches everybody is suffering from.
There are two things which stand out for me as two possible causes in my case. I too had a series of insect bites around my ankles which gave me a bad reaction and there was a suggestion that capillaritis is an auto-immune problem. But, more likely I think is that round about the same time, as a result of a heart virus, I began medication for high blood pressure and have been on that ever since. Just last week I saw a reference to a link between the two things. Certain types of BP. medication have been suggested as causing Schamberg’s in quite a significant no of cases. These include Ramipril and Amlodipine, both of which I take in small doses. This connection had never occurred to me, but I am now going to make an appointment with my GP and see about a change. Goodness knows how we decide which one though. I suspect trial and error, which could take some time! There are a few websites that make this possible connection and it might be worth following this up if you are an older sufferer and on BP medication.
I was diagnosed 3 years ago with Schambergs on my first visit to the dernatologist. She was not too concerned even though I was!
Mine does not itch but I was given perscriptive cortisone to use if needed. I was told my daily low dose aspirin could be a contributor. I too take amlodipine( 5mg) daily so I’m going to check that out. Mine flares every year in the month of May. Temperatures are warmer, my feet get a bit swollen and then the bright red comes. I’m convinced that stress also brings it on as this month is never a good one for me! This year I was troubled with the redness all of May and the first week of June. It is now gone. Actually, if you look closely you will see the pinpoint rusty spots under the skin but to me it is not there as I don’t look lobster red. Until this year it had only covered the top of my feet and toes. However, this year it appeared on my ankles and just above. Since it is not constant or not a terminal illness, I’ve accepted this bump in my road and just deal with it as best I can. I do like hearing from others and learning things they are doing to control their symptoms.
Good luck in your search in seeking ways to personally help yourself in dealing with your diagnosis.
.
Hi Folks
I developed this same rash December 24, 2015.
Was told it was because of amlodipine, stopped it – made no difference.
Was all over my left foot and travelling up the leg, and starting to cover the right foot.
Finally referred to a dermatologist and told it was Schamberg disease – “we don’t know what causes it, don’t know how to fix it, its progressive, could stay for 2 days, 2 months, 2 years – we really don’t know. Its harmless so don’t worry about it” . Told it was leaking blood vessels. My concern was if its happening in my feet/ legs where I can see it where else is this happening.
Anyway last Thursday I had a cortisone injection into the joint of my right thumb for degeneration and pain from osteoarthritis. Since then the rash has started to fade considerably , like its almost gone. That is the only thing that is different in the last few days so I firmly believe its connected. I have previously tried topical steroids without success. I can only guess its because the cortisone was injected in higher doses. Time will tell if it returns. Oh and the thumb is feeling a little better.
Tania
Well its now a couple of months since the cortisone injection in my thumb, and the rash is back with a vengeance and slowly making its way up both legs to the knees. Off to a Rheumatologist next month to see if they can shed a light on it and a few other things that have been happening.
I had a DVT a year or so ago and had to take Warfarin for 3 months. During that time, the red dot-like rash started up from my ankles to about calf height. Regular doctor had no idea what it was, but dermatologist diagnosed it as Shambergs. He said it might go away or it may continue to move up my leg and he couldn’t give me anything for it. After stopping the Warfrin it slowly began to fade away. Later, my regular doctor told me to start taking a low dose aspirin and I’m starting to see some of those dots again on my lower legs. I also get bruises frequently so it’s time to talk to doctor about those. It just may be the aspirin is not good for me. Other medicines can cause them to appear, I’m sure. Many years ago after starting to take a thiazide drug for high blood pressure, round, rusty spots about 1/8 ” or so in size started moving up from ankles to around calf level. Again, regular doctor had no idea, but went to dermatologist who said it was the medicine causing capallaries to break and that I needed to stop that med. Regular doctor changed me to a Beta Blocker and the spots went away.
Had all kinds of circulation problems in my legs after a partial course of flagyyl (sp?). After I got off it ( it made me horribly sick for a very long time). Used up all my sick leave. All my vacation time. Ended up without pay. All this after an only partial course! Then the legs started up. Swelled up, turned red, spider veins, some varicose veins, then the rash. It.s been years now but I still have the blue veins and the rust spots. Both legs, and the spots are close together.
I have a question. Say you bleed from,say, a cut on finger, or something like that on a pillowcase, and when said pillowcase is laundered RUST-actual RUST- is left behind where bloodstain was..? God bless each of you.
Hi Jeremy, Not sure about the rust business?….
I was diagnosed very quickly by my dermatologist whom I consider highly intelligent. My internist looked at my very red feet and ankles and sent me on to her. She only gave me a strong cortisone cream to use which I never did. Mine does not bother me except from May to maybe September which is during our warmest months. So I have connected warm temperatures and shoes that are tight on my feet as my major contributors to it rearing its head. I’ve had it four years and in December the dermatologist looked at my feet and legs and said I looked very clear. I just try not to think about it but I know it will pop back up in warm weather. Hang in there as you will probably find things that trigger it and you can eliminate those that aggravate it. Good luck and stay strong.
Ian
I have had this condition for many many years as I am now 68 and as done me no harm at all yes embarrassing if wearing shorts but no itching at all just the usual orange rust colour on both feet all over and ankles and right up to my thighs with luck no one sees any of this discolouration as I am wearing clothes but I am not bothered anymore I was concerned at first then like yourselves read on the internet it was Shamberg a type of dermatitis anyway at least I have seen the picture which is similar to my feet and legs and as other people too I visited my GP and guess what she did not know even went for a offshore medical recently and the doctor there said to me what is that on your legs !!!!! there you go so folks I have lived with this for years and there is no cure a this present time seemingly did not realize that there were many people with the same condition good luck All
Exactly the same, Ian. I am 67 and have had the condition since I began taking blood pressure medication in 2001. No itching but unsightly and has spread up my calves. Never really changes, except standing and exercise make it more pronounced – as you would expect. It is definitely paler in the mornings when I wake up. I mention the BP meds because it was only last year that I made the connection that the Schamberg’s began round about the same time. I did research on the Internet and found a chart making a fairly strong case against Ramipril and Amlodipine being possible culprits in some cases. I showed my doctor the web data and she accepted the possibility but it was agreed that, as my medication controls my BP well, she would leave it up to me as to whether I want to experiment with a change of meds in the future. So far, I have decided the embarrassment caused by the capillaritis is not worth juggling around with the more important issue of blood pressure control. So, take heart everyone. It is unsightly but harmless, even after a good many years, and it appears that it rarely travels beyond the calves. I might think about the excess iron consumption suggested in an earlier post, but apart from that I am just getting on with life and enjoying the irony of living in the UK where exposing your legs to the sunshine on a regular basis is definitely not a problem!
Ian McGregor
Pat you mentioned Ramipril I am taking this tablet and have done for awhile But the Shambergs started long before that so in my case these tablets are not the cause anyway as you say it is harmless and in my case once more no one sees the discolouration on my legs and feet and just up to my knee caps Not My Thighs wrong information there Pat apologies I am sure I read somewhere it was a form of dermatitis and certainly does not itch either thank goodness or we would be up the wall Pat good to hear other peoples views and findings too good luck and as you say at we are living in the UK and not much sun where I am here in Bonnie Scotland cheers
A further thought, Ian. You mentioned dermatitis. I haven’t heard that mentioned before as I think that tends to be more of a true and sore inflammation of the skin. The consultants and web articles tend to refer to it as capillaritis but it might be that both terms apply. Also, I re-read your post and you mentioned it had spread to your thighs. I understood it generally stays confined to the lower limbs, but I didn’t intend to contradict you. What a good think it doesn’t itch!
Hi all, self-diagnosed myself a while back, then had confirmation from a specialist (I waited for her to say it). Wasn’t given any suggestions but rather told ‘you’ve read about it, there’s nothing more I can add’. It’s probably linked to Amlodipine or Ramipril. I stopped the Amlodipine a long time ago as it was causing me other discomforts.
I’ve read a lot of good things about Vitamin C + Rutin, where people have reported massive clearances after a month. It’s really annoying that a specialist doesn’t suggest things to try – especially when it’s something relatively simple/ harmless. ‘There’s no real evidence that it works, but you could try……..’ would have been a bit more uplifting. I’m about 2-3 weeks into taking Vitamin C + Rutin twice a day, will post updates. If nothing will move onto another possible solution. Hoping my future posts will be more useful to people. 🙂
I have had this since I was 21, started on the top of my feet near my toes. I am 40 now, its darker and is on both sides of my ankles. I have showed it to a few doctors, tried some various creams nothing works. None of the doctors ever seemed very concerned about it. I worked construction for 14 years, and wore two pair of cotton socks and heavy work boots. in 2010 I decided to stop working construction and sell cars, no more heavy work boots and socks. Never paid much attention to it, but one day I had noticed it faded a little, and continued to fade over the next three years. It never disappear completely but was definitely less noticeable. at the end of 2013 I took a job selling heavy trucks and equipment. I had been around this industry my whole life, and it seemed to be a better fit for me. I had to start wearing works boots and cotton sock again. Most sales in this industry are done on job sites, not in an office.
After about six months while getting out of the shower I noticed that the spots seemed a lot darker. they have continue to darken to this day. I never put the boot and sock thing together until my son 19 came back from boot camp this year. He was standing in our living room with no shoes on. I just happen to look down at his feet, and there they were the same spots. I got a little nervous, and said what’s up with your feet. He looked at me and said its from wearing my combat boots and wool socks. I asked how do you know that. he said it happens all the time a bunch of us have it.
I don’t know why it happens, but I think there is a definite connection. As far as wearing shorts, I tan up pretty dark in the summer. This makes it pretty much unobtainable. I don’t know if this will help any one, but I hope it dose.
In the comment above I typed wool socks i meant cotton
Im 45 female. Began w this ugly disease about 2yrs ago. Just like everyone else went to many Drs and no answers except no.cause or cure. I WAS WONDERING HOW FAR WILL THIS SPREAD? WILL IT STAY ON MY LEGS OR CONTINUE TO SPREAD ALL OVER MY BODY???
Hello to all. Well, I haven’t post in this site in a long time. I had –yes (you heard me right) I had!– this ugly disease for let’s say about 5 years. It started, just like for many of us, for no reason. Ugly rusty spots around my feet, calves and ankles uughhh 😦 — And yes I did go to many doctors and they had many different opinions and ideas form too much iron in my system, to leaky veins from running (used to run every day) or from sitting for long periods of time (I work in an office) to my diet, too much exercise, too much caffeine and so forth. However, as many of you have find out, doctors don’t really know what causes the rusty-spots and they do not have medicine for it either. Sooo, frustrated I decided to look for natural remedies on my own…and yes I tried everything under the sun!! Cleansing, dieting, fasting, ointments, coconut oil, aloe vera juice, ginger teas, natural charcoal pills, even a liver/kidney flush including meditation. Nothing seemed to work so at one point I, sort of, stopped focusing on it. Today…they are almost gone!! I said almost cuz I still have a few spots in my inner ankles and my calves but I’m sure they’ll be gone too. And no, I have no idea what actually worked because, like I said, I tried every remedy I could get ahold of. So, they are going slowly just as they came. So, there is hope for ALL and I wish that you find your own individual answer.
I think I have the same disease. Mine is all over the inner thighs and calf. Because of this my legs look ugly. I have these I think from ever since I was a small child. I would have first realized it when I was may be 8 years old. My patches are really dark and visible. I have never tried any ointment or cream. Neither have noticed if they become better or worse on sun exposure. Mine remains same. Initially I felt it was some kind of eczema as my father has it. During one of the consultations with a useless doctor he suggested I also have another format of eczema. But like you I did a lot of research today and am pretty sure it’s this disease. I am 30 now. And I just hope this is not genetic and gets passed on to my children.
I have been to several Doctor’s, all said i have iron spots from leaky veins, prescribed compression ,knee length.hose. Stated with just a few rust colored spots on both legs above the ankles, now cover my legs half way up to knee. I found a complete cover up for summer called Derma blend in beige,comes in multiple colors.,Wonderful and natural like a tan .Can be purchased online you won’t be disappointed even worn to cover birth marks.
7 years passed,hows your feet? 🙂
I guess i have the same “disease”,and im just wondering how did you end up with this rash?
I suspect iron. Fortification of rice, pasta, cereal, breakfast bars, etc add to our storage of iron and folate. I understand Taking b12 and vit C supplements can increase iron levels. Tea with meals can reduce absorption of nonheme iron. Dairy/calcium with meals helps to reduce absorption of heme iron. Mine is within range high end. I reduced iron saturation from 39 to 35 by checking iron content, drinking tea with meals and having calcium products with meals. Also take small amounts of zinc and magnesium which help to keep iron at bay. Intook b12 for a few months and my thumb nails developed horizontal lines and it looked like I had a flip flop strap tan on my feet. I have not been able to get a tan on my feet or legs for years so the browning was an interesting development
can you get tattoos over them?? i hate mine.
Wow, so good to know that I’m not the only one lost about this!!
From what I’ve read and from my exp going to doctors, no one knows why this appears and I also heard different opinions: sitting too much, standing too much, bad diet, genetics, iron in veins, blood circulation problems, medicines that triggered…etc
My case:
I have it since 18 yr and I’m now 27. it started in my ankles, going a bit up (until mid leg, but only back) and feet. I never had pain or so unless some tiredness when standing up for too long. Yes, I have blood circulation problem – my blood is a bit thick (I did exams) but lately I feel some veins swollen (though I don’t feel my legs tired!)
ANYONE WITH THIS??
How I found out:
Took me almost 10 years to FINALLY figure this out thanks to a very kind doctor – he was the only one asking for a biopsy! He said there’s no cure but to keep using compressing socks and take Trental if I feel my legs very tired/swollen. Make exercise, bla bla.
All the others docs said didn’t know or gave me creams that did nothing. I also took Vessel Due F at some point (a doctor closer to the solution finally understood that my blood is thick) but I’m not 100% sure if works totally – I only tried for some weeks but I believe it helps to make the blood thinner.
I also use Trental (just sometimes) only when legs are VERY swollen (this happens to me when I’m standing too long or when there is a very hot and dry summer – my legs get swollen easily and I feel itchy).
I will start to take it again to see if it helps to make blood a bit thinner.
Anyone that tried TRENTAL OR VESSEL DUE? what are your thoughts?
I have hemophilia (severe) and have spots on my feet which I identified as purpura and moved along, figuring “comes with the hemophilia, I guess”. I have some rust-colored rash spots on my legs in random spots and I was afraid it was a fungal infection or something else nasty, but am glad to hear this can be similar capillary issues since that makes sense and isn’t as worrisome, if not aesthetically pleasing. Mine is pretty minor at this point, luckily (though it’s just been two weeks or so since I noticed).. I’ll probably go to a dermatologist anyway, just to confirm..
Hello I have exactly what you wrote about they told me the exact same things please email me so that I can talk to you more about it I would like to get all the info you can get on the so that I can help myself with this condition thank you devconmm@gmail.com
I’m glad I found this website. I have had shambergs for years! My dermatologist diagnosed it and just shrugged it off. He suggested rutin. Just today I realized it’s gone! I’m trying to figure out why. Only things that’s changed is I’ve been taking ramipril for the past year for leaky kidney capillaries.
Hi Karen,
Doctors are still none the wiser as to what causes this disease, and hence no closer to getting a cure!..I started to get it when I was in my late 50’s, and now at 70 it is still very much with me!
My personal feeling is that it has something to do with iron in the blood?
It’s been with me so long I no longer worry about it.
I hope it can be rightly diagnosed soon, so a remedy can be found!
All the best!:)….Glenn
I have had the same problem, mine occurred at a very young age, people refered to this irritating rash as, Kayla AIDS. Well, I have researched and used all the creams I could think of, done what you have done. I feel a light relief because I swore I was dying. I am 25 now and have had this rash simce I was around 10 or 11. It was on my feet but through out the years almost my entire body is starting to cover. I knew there was no cure but it still sucks to have this reddish brown mess all over me.
God bless this Website. Its so good to read about others who have the same Problem. I am from Germany and 28 years old. I Visited many Doctors and they all dont know what was wrong with My fest. It started 2 or 3 years ago. I noticed that I eat less fruites and moved to a warmer Region. I worked at the desk all Day. I am overweight but Do Sports. So I feel quite good but was worried about My feets. After a Long Day the feets starts so get Thicker. In a german article I read Vitamin C is the Key for Schamberg. Probably got too less Vitamin C due to eating less fruites. I also Put My legs Up when I am asleep in Bad.
I think the Key is Sports in combination with Vitamin C.
I use a Cross Trainer 3 times a week 40 Minuten plus Vitamin C and it seems to get better.
Thanks for your thoughts Erik, and I am sure there are many on this site that will try your suggestions….me being one of them!:)…All the best…Glenn
Hello Glenn, actually after I read this blog I started making researches in my country the last few days and in the Year 2014 a german doctor of Universtiy Heidelberg found a cure for Schamberg.
I start my therapy now and tell you about my progress in the next weeks and months and show pictures too.
The source is in german language but I translate it for you:
Here it is – finally an answere how to cure Schamberg (for most people probably a good hope!)
71% of all pacients were cured after 8 months
Only 3 minor side effects.
25% was not cured, but had visible successes.
The patientes used 2 × 50 mg rutoside and 1 000 mg
ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)
I found out, that in buckwheat is 200mg rutoside per 1000g buckwheat. this is a high output of natural rutoside in food and healthy for the human body. you can buy buckwheat online at amazon for example. Rutoside has a high natural output in parsley and white mulberry and St. John’s wart too.
So eat more parsley too and drink St. John’s wart Tea!
So I start my day now with eating self made buckwheat pancaces with sweet pepper or broccoli.
sweet pepper has 1000mg ascorbicacid per 1000g sweet pepper.
broccoli has 1120mg ascorbicacid per 1000g broccoli.
because 1000g sweet pepper is very much, you can combine it with drinking orange juice.
1 Litre orange juice has 500mg ascorbicacid.
—————————–
My daily dose for Schmberg cure is:
Breakfast:
– buckwheat pancaces with milk and sweet pepper or broccoli.
– 1 Glass orange juice
lunch
– 1 Glass orange juice
– 1 buckwheat bread
Dinner
– 1 Glass orange juice
– 1 buckwheat bread and sweet pepper or broccoli.
you can combine it with many other foods like:
100g Acerola, raw 1.700 mg ascorbicacid
100g Rosehip, raw 1.250 mg ascorbicacid
100g Sea buckthorn berries 450 mgascorbicacid
100g Sea buckthorn juice 266 mg ascorbicacid
100g Currants, black 189 mg ascorbicacid
100g Kiwi 100 mg ascorbicacid
100g Strawberries 62 mg ascorbicacid
100g Orange juice, freshly squeezed 52 mg ascorbicacid
100g Lemon juice 51 mg ascorbicacid
I wish you all luck. I will try this cure now and tell you about my results in the next weeks and months.
Because I really hate unnatural medicine, I try to cure schamberg with the natural ingredients in food.
_____________________________________
Here are the german original documents to the therapy and study:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/ddg.12520_suppl
Click to access diss15_007.pdf
Thanks so much Erik…I will try these suggestions, and I hope all goes well for you my friend…..stay positive and God bless you!:)
Oh and additional information: rutoside stay for 35 hours in the human body. So the cure can only show results if you eat Food with rutoside daily or at least 5 times a week.
A year passed,i started my own journey with doctors right after I wrote a comment to you, here’s my experience after contacting with two vascular surgeon:
-Lose weight ( my BMI was 35 at that point with 183 cm and 118 kg @ 30y o Male)
-Use compression socks
-Use DETRALEX
thats it, kinda meh. Since then, I lost ~ 14 kg, my BMI is 31 – which is still on overweight area and my calfs are hurt every day – I think I miss some vitamine due to the diet or something.
I have recently self diagnosed myself with this disease. I am a 33 yr old male and have been dealing with this for about 4 – 5 years. What is interesting is that I am pretty much the exact same height and weight as you. Have been at my current weight for about 10 yrs.
I am a 29 yr old male, 183cm and had 120kg. I had the exact same height and weight as you too.
I had about 100kg for about 7 years.
But now I am sure that I cured my Schamberg. read my other comments.
You can contact me for more information via Mail erik_struss (at) yahoo dot de
Hello there. 2 Months later now. 2 × 50 mg rutoside and 1 000 mg
ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) works well for me.
I lost 10kg now and my weight is now 108kg. It looks much better now. Rutoside and Ascorbic Acid worked very well for me. Please consme rutoside from buckwheat and make buckwheat pancaces every morning and eat it with broccoli or sweet pepper.
My feet looks much better now. never give up hope. this works for me. This schamberg cure is confirmed from University Heidelberg in Germany
I have had this for 14 years, no cure, no hope! Gets worse with time. However it causes no problems except cosmetic and self esteem issues. Has anybodu had a tattoo over they rusty rash from hell?
Hello Paul,please try my method. Its the first Schamberg Cure available, made by University Heidelberg Germany.
2 × 50 mg rutoside and 1 000 mg
ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) per Day will work.
If you eat this for some months, it should cure Schamberg or get better. Make additional sports while the cure.
Breakfast:
– buckwheat pancaces with milk and sweet pepper or broccoli.
– 1 Glass orange juice
lunch
– 1 Glass orange juice
– 1 buckwheat bread
Dinner
– 1 Glass orange juice
– 1 buckwheat bread and sweet pepper or broccoli.
I am also interested in if anyone has ever tattooed over the rash region & if there has been any impact? I also heard that Schambergs Disease is more prevalent in males. Is this true? I’ve also tried many things. The venoscan stockings might be helping slightly but not completely sure.
Hi Ana
I think that its worth mentioning, I have been in comunication with a local tattooist. I took and sent pictures of my two legs, ankles and feet to him (mine is quite servere at this point) and he replied he could ink over it no problem. Medical advice, I shall seek next and hopefuul somebody who has done it themselves. iF IT IS SAFE AND POSSIBLE I AM ADAMANT THIS NIGHTMARE WILL BE AT AN END!
Thank you very much for the advice Erik. I will try it out and report back very soon.
this would be great Paul, please report if something gets better. I use buckwheat, even if its expensive, I buy it on Amazon because its not available in my region. Buckwheat have the highest amount in rutoside. but this will only work in combination with ascorbic acid. For examlple Orange Juice. you need to eat this for 2 months. it worked well for me. If I could send you pictures, that would be great.
Hello Erik. I have been monitoring this site for almost 10 years now, I never have messaged until now. I have read all the comments and tried most of the different methods, advice and remedys offered by the many that have shared the valuable information on here. Unfortunetly for me, none have been effective, nor eased the progression. I had come to the final conclusion that I would just have to accept it, move on and live the rest of my days. In my 14 year experience with this, I have grown to learn that its called “progressive” for a reason. It started with one tiny spot and now it has spread all over my both lower limbs like a wild fire, I hate to think what another 14 years may do! I must emphasis that it has caused me no pain whatsoever, not even a single itch or scratch. The only issues I faced is cosmetic and lower self esteem. I will absolutley take your advice and follow the programme above, thank you so much. I would be interested in seeing the pictures and it would be much appreciated. email druid84@gmx.us What region are you from Erik?
hello Paul, I wrote you an email. please report me, if the cure suggestion with rutoside and ascorbinacid worked for you. it is important to eat enough rutoside and enough ascorbinacid per day from natural food sources.
You actually make it appear so easy with your presentation but I in finding this matter to
be really something that I think I might never understand. It seems too complicated and extremely vast for me.
I am having a look forward to your subsequent put up, I’ll attempt
to get the cling of it!
Hi, great link for someone like me who’s had Schamberg symptoms for a couple of years. If it’s of interest it appears anyone taking Prednisone or Prednisolone is very likely to contract Schambergs.
I’ve been pretty successful, though not completely, treating this with Vitamin C powder (Ascorbic Acid) 1000mg dose taken twice a day and Rutin, one 450mg capsule taken once a day. This has worked for me over the last few years by reducing the severity a lot. I find daily application of flaxseed oil seems to help some as well.
I’m so glad I found this blog, because there is precious little useful information about Shamberg’s Disease. After reading some very old posts on Facebook and some on this blog, I guess I have to consider myself lucky because:
1) I saw my doctor the day after the mystery rash appeared, and
2) She knew right away that it was Shamberg’s (unfortunately could not offer a “cure”)
So, after I got home I started researching right away. That was five days ago. I’ve learned much in these past few days, and have started trying some things to see if they help. I hope to learn more by reading through the posts here, and hope to be able to contribute in the future. I feel blessed that I’m getting an early start, and that it gives me a good chance to heal this.
I’ll begin to read all your posts now.
So I have been looking for hours for an explanation about what is on my damn feet! Just like yours…no pain..no itching..no redness..I wouldn’t even know it was there if I didn’t see it! What’s weird is me and my husband both got it around the same exact time! Very weird! I’ve noticed that keeping feet clean and dry and not wearing socks and shoes all day ..actually seems to help and keep it from spreading more….now my husband works construction and hard labor and his has gotten so much worse! Like almost whole top of his feet and ankles are this freckle like spot! We both have had it for over a year now….I was hoping for a cure but now I am starting to loose hope from the information I am finding and reading
What I think is weird ..is the fact me and my husband both got it randomly one day and how is this possible???? No idea! We do everything together so there must be something causing this painless, annoying looking rash spot lol
Bri:
I do think it’s very interesting that you and your husband got it at the same time. Something you both ingested? Or an infection?
I could not pinpoint what caused my case. It just appeared suddenly one day.
The good news is that I have resolved it and my legs are back to normal. It only lasted less than two months. I’ll make a separate post detailing what I did.
So here’s my experience:
As I wrote earlier, I saw my doctor the day after the “mystery rash appeared,” and she diagnosed it immediately as Shamberg’s. This gave me an early start to research and do something about it.
When I saw my doctor, the skin on my legs (mainly my shins) was bright red, but I had no pain nor itchiness. About a week later, it had turned an orangy-rusty color with some darker brown areas, all against a general red background. Yikes!
After reading many accounts on this blog and elsewhere from people affected by Schamberg’s and what they have tried, I came up with a “plan.”
I started taking Lysine, Vit.K2, Vit.C and MSM internally. I then made a special lotion consisting of Rixx lotion with added Lysine, Vit.K2, Vit.C, MSM, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, and Arnica Gel.
I applied this lotion every day. Before applying the lotion, I washed my legs with a solution of borax and hydrogen peroxide. After about a week of doing that, the redness began to fade. Once the redness had gone and the skin was only various shades of rusty/brown, I exfoliated (hard scrubbing). After about three weeks of daily lotion application and three exfoliations, the skin on my legs was back to normal. There was no sign of anything ever having been abnormal. I then stopped taking the supplements, applying the lotion and scrubbing. The skin remained looking normal and healthy.
When I first got the “mystery red rash” I had suspected that it could have been caused by exposure to something when I went to the beach the day before. I had gone to the same spot many times before and never had anything happened. Nevertheless, since the rash appeared right after going to the beach, I had reason to think I could have contracted something there. So now that the skin on my legs was back to normal, I ventured back out to the beach. Submerged my legs in the water and got sunshine on them for about 5 minutes. Nothing happened — no redness, no irritation. I have done this a couple more times for longer periods (about 15 minutes), without any negative effects.
So I guess, it’s goodbye Schamberg’s for good, and I don’t need to fear the seawater or sunshine. I’m a happy camper! 🙂 I still don’t know what caused the Schamberg’s in the first place, nor can I say exactly what I took or did cleared it up. But it’s gone, and it only took about a month.
I hope my experience helps someone else.
Vivian
I have decided to write here even though this is an older post, but there is just too little information on this condition on the web. I have found the posts on this blog very helpful and I hope other people with the same symptoms would be able to find solutions.
The spots on my body appeared almost 4 years ago. They started above the knees and around the lower trunk area; quickly spread to my arms and entire legs. The first dermatologist that I consulted with, immediately said that I had vasculitis and prescribed a steroid (Prednisone). I feel like the medication worsened the condition. He referred me to an endocrinologist to investigate the underlying condition causing the vasculitis. After numerous expensive blood tests, biopsy, etc., no underlying condition was found and the endocrinologist was ready to conclude that I did not have vasculitis. She was very thorough and tried everything to find the cause of the rash, which in the meantime was getting worse and worse. She referred me to another dermatologist in Northwestern University in Chicago (this was a year later). He just looked at the spots and ruled out vasculitis. He said I had pigmented purpura (Schamberg’s disease). After another biopsy to confirm his diagnosis, he suggested vitamin C and rutin daily. He said that there was no known cure for the condition; it could be treated with the vitamin C/rutin, it could resolve on its own. I stopped the steroid and started the vitamin C and rutin. I also started drinking a green smoothie every morning. For months I saw no change in my condition. I started ignoring it because it confirmed everything that I had read – no cure, it could resolve, it could stay for years. I just wore long pants and long sleeves; it is cold in Chicago most of the time anyway.
Occasionally, I would get frustrated and start researching again, hoping to find some miracle solution. Not much info on pigmented purpura out there. 3 years after the spots appeared for the first time, I came across this blog. I read every single post. Then, I did a deeper research for scientific/medical articles on the topic. Again, there is not much research on this condition, but I was able to locate a few studies discussing the positive results of narrowband photo therapy. I got the articles through the library. I also read Emma’s post on this blog about the success with a narrowband lamp. I was hesitant because the narrowband lamp is not cheap, but I decided to give it a try.
I purchased the UVB lamp and started the treatment following the tips in Emma’s post. I currently use the lamp 2-3 times per week and treat each area for 60 seconds. I’ve been using the lamp for 8 months and I also continue the vitamin C/Rutin regimen, as well as the daily green smoothie. I also added Iron supplements daily because most of my blood tests showed low iron levels.
The results came slowly and gradually. Similar to Deb’s post, I first saw improvement on my arms and above the knees. Most of the spots are gone or fading, but there is still work to do. So far, this method has been the most successful for me.
I am thankful for the information that I found here, so I wanted to share my experience in case other people are searching for answers on this mysterious condition.
Thanks everyone for sharing their experiences. I was just diagnosed with Schambergs. Mine is on my feet,ankles, and shins. It a little painfull and/or itchy when breaking out. Almost feels like a sun burn. I do take amlodipine which can be a cause apparently. I’m going to ask my doctor to replace it with something else to see if that’s the trigger. I’ll report back once I know.