Is It Acne? Hard Bumps Near the Genital Area

Is it acne?

I have developed a hard, swollen lump about 3 to 4 centimeters to the right of my genital area, in the pubic hair region.
The lump is approximately 0.5 to 0.8 centimeters in diameter and resembles an immature pimple.
I previously squeezed it, which resulted in the expulsion of a white, creamy substance similar to that of a pimple, and there was also some bleeding afterward.
After squeezing, the lump seemed to diminish, but a few days later, I noticed it was still hard and swollen.
When I attempted to squeeze it again, it was difficult to expel anything.
Could this be something similar to a pimple? What treatment should I pursue? Thank you.

Mr. X, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/02

Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology

It should belong to the category of acne or sebaceous gland issues; it's okay, just don't squeeze it carelessly.

Reply Date: 2005/02/02

More Info

Based on your description, it sounds like you may be dealing with a condition known as a sebaceous cyst or possibly an ingrown hair, rather than typical acne. These hard bumps can occur in the genital area and may resemble acne, especially if they are inflamed or have a whitehead.
Sebaceous cysts are non-cancerous lumps that can form under the skin when a sebaceous gland becomes blocked. They are usually filled with a thick, oily substance called sebum, which is produced by the sebaceous glands. These cysts can appear anywhere on the body, including the genital area, and may feel firm to the touch. They can become inflamed or infected, leading to pain, redness, and sometimes drainage of pus or sebum.

On the other hand, ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin instead of rising up from it. This can lead to small, painful bumps that may become infected and resemble acne. If you have been squeezing the bump, it could have caused irritation or infection, which might explain the bleeding and the difficulty in expressing the contents of the bump.

Given that you have experienced some bleeding and the bump has not resolved, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend treatments such as:
1. Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the area can help reduce inflammation and promote drainage if the bump is indeed a cyst or an ingrown hair.

2. Topical Treatments: If the bump is infected, your doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics or recommend over-the-counter treatments to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.

3. Incision and Drainage: If the cyst is large or painful, a healthcare provider may need to perform a minor procedure to drain it. This should only be done by a professional to avoid complications.

4. Avoid Squeezing: It is important to avoid squeezing or picking at the bump, as this can lead to further irritation or infection.

5. Follow-Up Care: If the bump persists or worsens, follow-up care may be necessary. In some cases, surgical removal of the cyst may be recommended if it continues to cause problems.

In conclusion, while the bump you are experiencing may resemble acne, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the exact nature of the bump and to receive appropriate treatment. Self-diagnosis and treatment can sometimes lead to complications, so it is always best to consult with a medical professional for any persistent or concerning symptoms.

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