Skin rash on chest near breast nipple

[jonsauerland]

I am a 38 year old black male, that is somewhat overweight and i have larger than average male breast.  About 10 days ago, i noticed a small pimple that was very itchy in my left breast area just outside the brown area surrounding the nipple.  When I examined it, I notice the pimple had a hair coming out so I pulled the hair out with tweezers causing a very small piece of skin to pull away.  Since that time, the area has become increasing iritated, red, itchy, scalling skin.  At first, there was a blood discharge (minor) but now the area goes from moist to dry.  I have applied alchol to clean the area, which stings nd has not helped the situation.  At present the area is about 1 inch by 1 inch, looks like it is healing somewhat and has dry scally skin.  At times, my left nipples appears to bve more sensitve, but I am not sure that has anything to do with the rash.  There is no more blood and, but the area is still very tender.

The only recent sexual contact I had was oral sex, unprotected, and someone was sucking and licking around my chest area, although I do not think they bit me.  

Could this be herpes? male breast cnacer? or an infection caused by my pulling out the hair?  
I have an appointment with a doctor, but wanted some insight.  Thanks.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I vote for option #3--an infection caused by my pulling out the hair.  This may have resulted in some irritant dermatitis in the vicinity.  I advise you to not worry, to apply 1% hydrocortisone twice daily along with Vaseline or other moisturizer, and to show your doctor whatever is left, if anything, when you get there.  Also, it's best not to pluck any more hairs, so as not to confuse the issue.  But you should be fine.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[jonsauerland]

Thanks for you quick response.  I just got back from the doctor and you were absolutely correct.  He gave me a script for cortisone (spelling) and told me to stop plucking hairs. Many thanks.