Have dermatologist look at marks

Dear Dr. Gott: My parents are stubborn, to say the least. They’ve been suffering for almost three months. They have reported to their doctor that it feels as though bugs are crawling on them. The doctor prescribed an antidepressant, as he did not believe my father. Initially, it was believed to be bedbugs, so they bought new mattresses, some chairs, etc. Since my mother’s challenges, she has managed to see some very tiny “bugs” that are crawling on her skin. They resemble tiny centipedes. She has also stated that she believes that she sees some very fine eggs. They have since submitted some samples to a dermatologist with no resolution. My parents reside in Texas, and I was wondering if there are any epidemics going around to which we have not been made privy? Or can you recommend a solution? They’ve succumbed to rubbing Vicks VapoRub on each night, which has slowed the irritation.

Dear Reader: I see from your note that your parents live in Texas. I don’t see that information as being particularly useful, unless your parents spend a lot of time outdoors gardening and so forth. If they do, I’d wonder about chiggers.

Rather than being concerned about insect epidemics, I’d worry more about something like the itch mite, a common inhabitant in temperate climates. But, for the life of me, I cannot diagnose your parents’ problem based on the limited information you supplied. Vicks sounds like a plan, but I would be particularly interested in the dermatologist’s analysis of the situation. Get some “resolution” from him or her.

Dear Dr. Gott: I had a hysterectomy a few years ago. How often do I need to have a gynecological exam?

Dear Reader: I have, much to the displeasure of my gynecologist colleagues, previously addressed the issue of Pap smears in women. I’ll review this subject.

All women should have annual Pap tests during their reproductive years.

As a general rule, a woman does not need such testing after a hysterectomy, which removes the opening to the uterus (the cervix) as well as the uterus itself. Because the Pap test checks for cervical cancer, it is not necessary after a hysterectomy; the cervix is gone.

Similarly, postmenopausal women do not need a Pap after they have had three consecutive normal exams.

There are obvious exceptions to these guidelines, including vaginal bleeding and discharge, as well as any other symptoms stemming from the reproductive tract.

If your uterus and cervix were removed years ago and you’re having no gynecological complaints now, you can “bag” the Pap test – unless, of course, you wish to continue it.