Persistent Lump and Itching in Groin Area: Possible Causes and Concerns - Urology

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Persistent lumps and itching in the groin area can be concerning and may arise from various underlying causes. Given your history of pubic lice (pediculosis pubis) and swollen lymph nodes in the groin, it's understandable that you are worried about the recurrence of symptoms.
Firstly, it is important to note that lymph nodes can remain enlarged for some time even after the initial cause of inflammation has resolved. In your case, the lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) may have been a response to the pubic lice infestation, and while the lice have been treated successfully, the lymph nodes may still be reacting to the previous infection. This is a common occurrence, and in many cases, the lymph nodes will gradually return to their normal size over time.

The new symptoms you are experiencing, such as redness, swelling, and itching in the hair follicle area, could be indicative of folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles. Folliculitis can be caused by bacterial infections, irritation, or even fungal infections. It is also possible that the area is reacting to irritation from clothing, sweating, or other factors. If the itching and redness persist, it may be worth considering a topical antibiotic or antifungal treatment, depending on the suspected cause.

Another possibility is that you may be experiencing a recurrence of pubic lice or another type of parasitic infection, although you mentioned that this seems unlikely given the absence of sexual activity. However, it is important to remember that lice can be transmitted through close contact, including non-sexual contact, and can sometimes be difficult to completely eradicate.

In terms of the persistent lump, if it has significantly decreased in size but is still present, it may be a residual lymph node or a benign cyst. If the lump becomes painful, increases in size, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever or systemic signs of infection, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation from a healthcare provider.

You should also consider other potential causes for your symptoms, such as contact dermatitis, which can occur due to allergic reactions to soaps, detergents, or personal care products. If you have recently changed any products that come into contact with your groin area, this could be a contributing factor.

In summary, while the persistence of the lump and the new symptoms of itching and redness can be concerning, they may not necessarily indicate a serious underlying condition. However, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the symptoms do not improve or worsen, or if you have any new concerns, I recommend following up with your healthcare provider for a thorough examination and possibly further testing. They may consider a skin scraping or culture to identify any infectious agents, and they can provide appropriate treatment options based on their findings.