worsening infected cyst after treatment

[bruce455]

I have had a cyst about the size of a large marble on my upper back for about twenty years. It has recently become infected and I was given antibiotics which I have been taking now for five days. The cyst is unrecognisable as the area surrounding it is red and so swollenl that all is visible is a large 'spot like head'.
The area that is swollen and red and hot is about four inches square.
I am feeling a little bit unwell now as well as the increasing pain. I cant lie on it and any movement is really painful. Even when standing totally still it is like a stabbing pain at times.
I play lots of contact sport and have a high pain thresh hold but this is awful.

Should the antibiotics not have done something by now?

Should I get it bathed with either hot or cold water?

What will help relieve the pain?

advice desperately wanted and appreciated.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
To prevent infection of the wound,pls clean the wound with dettol and maintain hygiene. An antiseptic cream such as Polysporin or neosporin should be used only when the wound is dirty, for puncture wounds and for wounds showing early signs of infection. Clean healing wounds do not require antibiotics beyond the first day.

Regular change of the dressings preferably from a healthcare provider is necessary. The aim is to keep the dressing dry and clean.If there are any signs of infection,then doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics for the wound.An oral course of antibiotics would be better.

I hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.

[bruce455]

thank you for replies.
I went back to my GP who sent me to the hospital to get intravenous antibiotics which apparently would be further administered from home.
However, the opinion at the hospital was that it was to be removed that day under a general anaesthetic.
The relief was immense and I now have to go daily to have the dressing changed.
Im very concerned about getting an infection in the 'hole', especially in this hot weather.
It is difficult to keep the dressing on as I am finding that if I sweat at all, the grip of the adhesive tape just slips off.
I have not been any more antibiotics to take.

Is there anything I can do or that I should not do to help not get infected.
Also, how long can I reasonably expect to be off work?
The hole left is a good two centimeters deep and wide.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
As the cyst is infected,so surgical excision by traditional wide excision, minimal excision, and punch biopsy excision may be required.This is to be followed by a course of antibiotics.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries.Warm regards.

[jagesh50]

You may need incision and drainage at the earliest with antibiotic cover.