Single tiny bump on chest, not painful, itches occasionally

[msc8127]

I have had a small bump on my chest now for around 3 weeks. I would say that in terms of size it is around the size of the ball in a ball point pen. It is not swollen, though some days it has a little bit of redness which is typically on days that it has been a little bit itchy, likely with the redness resulting from my scratching it (I try not to, but it happens). The bump is not painful, and causes me no problems, except for the occasional itching. I have always had a few pimples, and the occasional boil, but no major acne problems. The only reason I have any concern for this particular bump is that it hasn't yet gone away.

I will also add that being winter, my skin is staying very dry, and as a result my skin irritations (pimples, and a couple of ingrown hairs) have been more frequent than normal, but still, no major outbreaks, just an irritation here and an irritation there. I have not been involved in any risky sexual activities. I am a overweight (230 lbs at 5'9") for a 30 year old man of my height, and admittedly, my diet needs improvement, which I am working on.

Is there likely anything to be concerned about with this bump? Or, is it likely to be something harmless that isn't worth worrying too much about? I did at first think it was going to be an ingrown hair, but the fact that it is still present after about 3 weeks puzzles me a bit.

Any ideas?

Thank you for your time!

[radjack]

Hello , i have the exact same thing , can you please tell me if the cyst disappeared on its own ?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be a small irritated hair follicle or a small cyst. 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.

[msc8127]

I also should add that I have had really bad dandruff over the last several weeks as well, despite using dandruff shampoo. I do bathe regularly, and have good hygiene. I just figured I'd throw this into the information in case it helps any with the scenario.