Which Specialist to Consult for Painful Lip Bumps: Dermatology or Gynecology?

Q: Which Specialist to Consult for Painful Lip Bumps: Dermatology or Gynecology?

Hello： If a cyst is located in the vulvar area, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. <br>If it recurs, one should consider a Bartholin cyst. <br>Here is a brief introduction to Bartholin cysts：<br>Clinical presentation： The cystic mass is located in the lower posterior par

Which specialty should I see?

I went to see a gynecologist because I had a painful lump on my labia.
The doctor diagnosed it as an acne lesion and prescribed some medication, asking me to return for a follow-up in three days.
They may need to use a needle to drain the affected area.
Can I also see a dermatologist for acne in this area? Do dermatologists perform internal examinations like gynecologists? Is it safe to use facial acne creams on acne in the genital area? What are the differences in care for these two areas?

C, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/03

Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology

Hello: If a cyst is located in the vulvar area, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.
If it recurs, one should consider a Bartholin cyst.
Here is a brief introduction to Bartholin cysts:
Clinical presentation: The cystic mass is located in the lower posterior part of the labia majora, protruding towards the lateral side of the labia majora.
It often occurs unilaterally, but can also be bilateral.
It may remain asymptomatic for an extended period and is often discovered during a gynecological examination.
The cyst grows slowly, typically not exceeding the size of a chicken egg.
Smaller cysts are oval or fusiform in shape.
Larger cysts may cause a feeling of fullness in the vulva and discomfort during intercourse.
Upon examination, the mass occupies the lower third of the entire labia majora, with the labia minora completely flattened and the vaginal opening pushed towards the unaffected side.
When a Bartholin cyst becomes infected, it can form an abscess, and recurrent infections can cause the cyst to enlarge.
Treatment options include cyst marsupialization and cyst excision.
The use of acne medications is generally ineffective; culture should be performed before administering treatment.

Reply Date: 2008/07/03

More Info

When dealing with painful bumps on the lips or genital area, it can be confusing to determine which specialist to consult: a dermatologist or a gynecologist. In your case, since you have already seen a gynecologist who diagnosed the bumps as acne, it is understandable to seek further clarification on whether a dermatologist should also be consulted.

First, let's clarify the roles of these specialists. Gynecologists specialize in women's reproductive health, including conditions affecting the vulva and vagina. They are well-equipped to diagnose and treat various issues in these areas, including infections, cysts, and skin conditions. On the other hand, dermatologists specialize in skin, hair, and nail disorders, and they have extensive training in treating various skin conditions, including acne, rashes, and cysts that can occur anywhere on the body, including sensitive areas.

If the bumps you are experiencing are indeed acne, it is possible for a dermatologist to provide additional insights or alternative treatment options. Dermatologists can offer specialized treatments for acne that may not be available through a gynecologist, such as topical retinoids or oral medications that target acne more effectively. Additionally, if the bumps are not responding to the treatment prescribed by your gynecologist, a dermatologist may be able to identify other underlying skin conditions that could be causing the issue.

Regarding your question about whether a dermatologist would perform an internal examination similar to a gynecologist, the answer is generally no. Dermatologists typically conduct external examinations and may use specialized tools to assess skin conditions. If there is a need for a more thorough examination of the genital area, they may refer you back to a gynecologist or another specialist.

As for using acne medications designed for facial acne on genital acne, caution is advised. The skin in the genital area is more sensitive than facial skin, and products that are effective for facial acne may cause irritation or adverse reactions when applied to the genital area. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using any topical treatments in sensitive areas to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific condition.

In summary, if you are experiencing painful bumps on your lips or genital area, it is reasonable to consult both a gynecologist and a dermatologist. The gynecologist can address reproductive health concerns, while the dermatologist can provide specialized care for skin conditions. If the treatment prescribed by your gynecologist does not yield results, or if you have concerns about the diagnosis, seeking a second opinion from a dermatologist may be beneficial. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare providers to ensure you receive the most effective and appropriate care for your condition.

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