After using phenylephrine, small white spots began to appear around the area..?
Hello, Dr.
Du.
I apologize for bothering you.
I have a question I would like to ask.
I have been diagnosed with genital warts by physicians at two urology clinics.
I started using Podophyllotoxin on the same day.
Initially, the larger warts shrank and even disappeared, but now small white spots that resemble pustular acne have started to appear in areas that were previously unaffected.
I would like to know if this is a normal reaction or if new lesions are developing.
Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/12
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: It is recommended to consult the urology department for examination.
You may also check the medication leaflet to see if such phenomena occur.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2023/11/12
More Info
Hello, thank you for reaching out with your question regarding the white bumps that have appeared after using phenol for wart treatment. It’s understandable to be concerned about any changes in your skin, especially after undergoing a treatment for a condition like warts or genital warts (often referred to as "cauliflower" due to their appearance).
Phenol is a caustic agent that is often used in dermatological procedures to treat warts and other skin lesions. It works by destroying the tissue of the wart, which can lead to the wart shrinking or disappearing. However, the application of phenol can also cause irritation to the surrounding skin, which may result in various reactions.
The appearance of small white bumps around the treated area could be due to several factors:
1. Irritation or Inflammation: After the application of phenol, it is common for the surrounding skin to become irritated. This irritation can manifest as small white bumps, which may resemble pustules or acne. This is often a normal response as the skin heals.
2. Folliculitis: The bumps could also be a result of folliculitis, which is the inflammation of hair follicles. This can occur if the skin is irritated or if there is an infection in the hair follicles.
3. New Lesions: While it is possible that new lesions could develop, especially if the initial treatment did not completely eradicate the wart virus, the timing of the appearance of these bumps suggests that they are more likely a reaction to the treatment rather than new warts.
4. Infection: If the bumps are painful, red, or filled with pus, there is a possibility of a secondary infection. This would require medical evaluation and possibly treatment with antibiotics.
It is essential to monitor the bumps closely. If they persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, fever, or discharge, it would be advisable to return to your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may perform a physical examination and possibly a biopsy if there is any concern about the nature of the new lesions.
In the meantime, it is crucial to keep the area clean and avoid any irritants. If you are using any topical treatments, consult your doctor to ensure they are appropriate for your situation.
In summary, while the appearance of white bumps after phenol treatment can be concerning, they may be a normal part of the healing process or a reaction to the treatment. However, if you have any doubts or if the condition worsens, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Thank you for your question, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns.
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