herpes? or what?

Recently I had a oral herpes scare - it was what seemed like a zit right ont he edge of my mouth/lip. I went to the doctor to have it tested and they took a viral culture of it - which came back as a negative. It was taken only a few days after the zit thing appeared. I then read that they are not always that accurate. since the test I have noticed a zit on my pubic area - not in the vagina are but above it like where the hair begins to grow. could this be herpes or something else? its not a cluster, its pus filled, and only painful when rubbed on and its raised reddich with a whitehead. what is it?

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

It is good that your viral culture was negative. If you have doubts with this test, a blood testing antibodies to the herpes simplex virus may be done. Otherwise, this could be an inflammation of the hair follicles or folliculitis. Symptoms usually present as rash, pimple or pustules located around a hair follicle that may crust over. This typically occur on neck, axilla, or groin area and  may be present as genital lesions.There may be associated  itching present.

Topical antiseptic treatment  and antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are adequate for most cases. Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid wearing constrictive clothing to prevent unnecessary hair removal. If it persists, it would be best to have this evaluated further by your doctor.

Take care and keep us posted.