Possible misdiagnosis?

[alj321]

Hi all,

I began with a few itchy red bumps in the beginning of June on my pubic area that then spread after I shaved in mid July. I finally went to a walk in doctor and was diagnosed with folliculitis.. I was prescribed an antibiotic twice daily for ten days and apply bactroban cream 2-3 times daily. I only have about 6 antibiotic pills left (3 days worth) and not much cream left either. However, the only relief I have had is the itching. I do not really have itching anymore and when I do it is minor and the cream really helps. So i'm concerned this could be another problem besides folliculitis like herpes even though I never had any of the symptoms of herpes like painful urination or feeling like I had the flu. Just itchy bumps that would develop white heads occassionally and pop. They all range in size and now they are just big and red (some still small)

Thank you!

[alj321]

Thank you for your response, most of the bumps have left  purple scars and it is quite noticable. Some are red still though. Is this normal? Or should I go back to the doctor and be put on more oral antibiotics? Do you have any suggestions as to how get rid of this scaring?

Oh and also there is very minimal itching now.

thanks again!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
These look like folliculitis skin after shaving only. Folliculitis starts when hair follicles are damaged by friction from clothing or blockage of the follicle. In most cases of folliculitis, the damaged follicles are then infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus (staph). They are red bumps with white small pus like material and may be painful or itchy.

Keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful. In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[alj321]

oh and sometimes they are like a purplish color