Breast Issues: Painful Skin Lesions and Their Causes

Breast issues

Doctor, a few weeks ago I noticed a small dark red-black bump on the outer side of my right chest.
It hurts a little when pressed.
After a few days, it started to peel and turned a bit red, with some blood vessels appearing around it.
Today, I noticed a small red area next to it that also hurts when pressed.
What could this be? Thank you.
🙏

Ling, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/04

Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If there is an abnormal lump in the breast accompanied by redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or bleeding, one should seek treatment at a gynecology or breast surgery clinic.

Reply Date: 2020/10/04

More Info

Breast issues, including skin lesions and pain, can be concerning and warrant careful evaluation. Based on your description of a dark red-black bump on the outer side of your right breast that is painful and has started to peel, it is essential to consider several potential causes.
Firstly, the appearance of a painful lesion can be indicative of various dermatological conditions. One possibility is a benign skin condition such as a seborrheic keratosis or a dermatofibroma, which can appear as dark, raised spots on the skin. These are generally harmless but can sometimes become irritated or inflamed, leading to pain and peeling. Another possibility is a skin infection, such as folliculitis or an abscess, which can present as a painful, red bump that may ooze or peel.

Additionally, the presence of blood vessels (as you mentioned "blood threads") around the lesion could suggest an inflammatory process or even a vascular lesion, such as a cherry angioma, which is typically benign but can be bothersome if it becomes irritated.
Another important consideration is the possibility of a more serious condition, such as Paget's disease of the nipple, which can present with changes in the skin of the nipple and areola, including redness, scaling, and sometimes pain. This condition is associated with underlying breast cancer, so it is crucial to have any suspicious lesions evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Given that you have noticed changes in the skin, including peeling and the development of new lesions, it is advisable to seek a consultation with a dermatologist or a healthcare provider specializing in breast health. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, recommend imaging studies or a biopsy to determine the exact nature of the lesions.

In the meantime, it is essential to avoid irritating the area further. This means refraining from scratching or picking at the lesions, as this can exacerbate inflammation and lead to secondary infections. Keeping the area clean and moisturized may help alleviate some discomfort, but be cautious with any topical treatments, especially if you have sensitive skin.

In summary, while there are several benign explanations for the symptoms you are experiencing, it is crucial to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind. Please do not hesitate to reach out to a medical professional for further evaluation and guidance.

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