Post-Treatment Concerns: Hard Spot After Boil Healing

After the treatment of a furuncle?

Hello, doctor.
I couldn't find any similar cases online, so I would like to ask you about my situation.
I recently had a boil on my buttocks, and after visiting a dermatologist, I was prescribed medication and topical treatment.
The swelling has subsided, there is no inflammation or pain, and it feels like it has healed.
However, there is still a small, hard, pointed area on the surface.
Aside from that, I have no other discomfort.
I have been applying topical clobetasol (as recommended by the dermatologist) for nearly a month, but that little pointed area is still there.
I would like to know if it will disappear on its own or if I should continue applying the medication.

En En, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/12

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

We need to see what it is.
It could be a scar, or there might already be a cyst inside.
It's necessary to have a physician confirm this in person.

Reply Date: 2023/05/12

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a common post-treatment concern after having a boil (or abscess) on your buttock. After the healing of a boil, it is not unusual to feel a hard spot or a lump at the site of the previous infection. This can be due to several reasons, including scar tissue formation, residual inflammation, or even a small cyst that may have developed.

Understanding the Hard Spot
1. Scar Tissue Formation: After any skin infection, including boils, the body heals by forming scar tissue. This tissue is often firmer than the surrounding skin and can feel like a hard lump. Over time, scar tissue can soften and become less noticeable, but this process can take weeks to months.

2. Residual Inflammation: Even after the boil has healed, some residual inflammation may persist. This can cause localized tenderness or hardness. If there is no pain, redness, or warmth, this is usually not a cause for concern.

3. Cyst Formation: Sometimes, a small cyst can form in the area where the boil was. These cysts can feel hard and may remain for a while. If they do not cause discomfort, they can often be left alone.

Treatment and Management
1. Continued Use of Medication: Since your dermatologist recommended applying a topical treatment (紫箘素, or a topical antibiotic), it is advisable to continue using it as directed. This can help prevent any potential infection and may assist in the healing process.

2. Observation: If the hard spot is not causing any pain or discomfort, it may be best to monitor it for a few weeks. Many times, these hard spots will resolve on their own as the body continues to heal.

3. Consultation with a Dermatologist: If the hard spot persists for more than a couple of months, or if you notice any changes such as increased size, pain, or signs of infection (redness, warmth, or discharge), it would be prudent to return to your dermatologist. They may perform an examination and possibly imaging studies to determine the nature of the hard spot.

4. Avoid Picking or Squeezing: It is essential to avoid manipulating the area, as this can lead to irritation or infection.

When to Seek Further Help
You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Increased pain or tenderness in the area.

- Redness or warmth around the hard spot.

- Any discharge or pus from the site.

- Fever or systemic symptoms that may suggest an infection.

Conclusion
In summary, the hard spot you are feeling after the boil healing is likely a result of scar tissue or residual inflammation. It is generally not a cause for concern if there are no accompanying symptoms. Continuing the topical treatment as advised and monitoring the area is a good approach. If you have any doubts or if the situation changes, do not hesitate to consult your dermatologist for further evaluation and management.

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