“What would heal this?”
I've had these pimple-like bumps that have pus on my arm for maybe 4 weeks. It's painful and itchy, I feel like they're getting worse and spreading. I read an article to not pop or they would spread also but they pop on their own. I've been cleaning it with water and soap and triple antibiotic cream, sometimes Vaseline, and covering it with a bandage. I just wanted to know more to treat it.
Female | 26 years old
Medications: None
Conditions: None
3 Answers
You need to see a doctor. The photo isn’t super clear, but it’s possible you have either - herpetic (herpes) infection, or ecthyma or impetigo. Agreed you probably should not mess with it, but you should see a doctor so it doesn’t get worse and hopefully reduces risk of scarring.
Pus-filled bumps are usually caused by bacteria and are best managed by a local dermatologist. You might require a topical and/or oral antibiotic.
Stephen Schleicher, MD
Stephen Schleicher, MD
Poor, out of focus photograph interferes with any kind of obvious diagnosis. Nevertheless, several come to mind, all of which will require an appointment with a dermatologist for diagnosis and proper treatment.
