Skin Irritation

My husband has had a j-tube for 3 1/2 years.  A few days ago the skin on the bottomside of the stoma appeared slightly red and hard.  It is not hot to touch, no fever, and is not sore.  There is also granulation tissue developing in the same area and am not sure if it is related.  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be due to chafing skin or friction rub. Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. Also wear cotton undergarments. Application of mild corticosteroid cream and oral antiinflammatories like ibuprofen/acetaminophen are also helpful. If the symptoms are severe then it will be best to consult a dermatologist.

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.