Recurring Red Bump on Skin: When to See a Dermatologist?

A raised and reddened area on the skin?

Hello, I would like to ask about a situation that occurred about six months ago.
I developed a pimple-like bump near my thigh on my buttock.
It was not painful to touch, and I initially thought it was just a regular pimple.
After applying acne medication for about a week, it healed.
However, in the following months, around my menstrual period or shortly after, the same area would become red and swollen, resembling a large pimple, and then it would heal again after one or two weeks.
This has been recurring for nearly six months, with the bump appearing after each menstrual period.
Sometimes it is painful when pressed, and it has gradually become less likely to resolve.
When I pinch it, it feels like there is a hard lump inside, about the size of a five-dollar coin.
Should I go to a major hospital's dermatology department for an examination? What could this condition be? Can it be resolved with medication, or is surgical incision necessary for confirmation? Thank you for your help!

Ms. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/07

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It could be a cyst, but without actually seeing the lesion, it cannot be confirmed.
It is recommended to seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2016/03/07

More Info

Recurring red bumps on the skin can be a source of concern, especially when they appear repeatedly in the same location and are associated with specific triggers, such as your menstrual cycle. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a recurring lesion near your thigh that resembles a pimple but has not fully resolved over time. This could indicate several potential dermatological conditions, and it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation.

One possibility is that you may be dealing with a condition known as a cyst, specifically an epidermoid cyst, which can form when skin cells proliferate and become trapped beneath the skin. These cysts can become inflamed or infected, leading to redness, swelling, and tenderness, particularly if they are manipulated or if there is a hormonal influence, such as during your menstrual cycle. The fact that you feel a hard lump beneath the skin suggests that there may be a cyst or another type of lesion that is not resolving completely.

Another consideration is hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic skin condition characterized by the formation of painful lumps, often in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks. This condition can flare up in relation to hormonal changes and is often associated with recurrent abscesses or nodules that can become inflamed and painful.

Given the recurring nature of your symptoms and the fact that the bump has become increasingly painful and persistent, it is important to seek medical attention. A dermatologist will be able to perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies or a biopsy if necessary to determine the exact nature of the lesion.
In terms of treatment, if the lesion is indeed a cyst, it may require surgical intervention to remove it completely, especially if it is causing discomfort or has become infected. On the other hand, if it is determined to be a different type of skin condition, topical or systemic medications may be prescribed to manage inflammation and prevent recurrence.

In summary, while over-the-counter treatments may provide temporary relief, they are unlikely to resolve the underlying issue if there is a more complex condition at play. Therefore, I strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. They can provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific situation. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and improve your overall skin health.

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