Small white lumps on chest

[chris_1988]

Hi, for a couple of years (as far as I can remember) I've had these small white lumps that kind of look like scars in the middle of my chest. They never really bothered me too much and my last girfriend didn't really notice them but in the last 2-3 months they've started to noticably spread and get bigger with nothing I can think of that could be the cause. I'd say there's around 50 now and are roughly 3mm with a few slightly bigger. I try not to mess around with them anymore but they're impossible to squeeze and on the rare occasion I ever managed to squeeze one of the suckers a thick white/yellowish puss kinda stuff would come out.

Will try and get a pic up tomorrow.

I'm 21, male, not overweight but do seem to sweat alot.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
One more possibility that needs evaluation is a sebaceous cyst. They may occur anywhere on body but scalp, ears, back, face, and upper arm, are common sites for sebaceous cysts. Blocked sebaceous glands, swollen hair follicles and excessive testosterone production will cause such cysts.

Generally no treatment is required but if they become painful then it means they are infected, Then surgical excision by traditional wide excision, minimal excision, and punch biopsy excision may be required.
I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.

[chris_1988]

Hi thanks for the reply. I just googled for blocked sebacious glands but what I have don't  seem to be as red or noticable as anything that came up, mine are skin coloured and white/yellow if I stretch the skin. Can't get a pic up tonight and will be away over the weekend so will try to get it done by sun/mon.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be an infected hair follicle or blocked sebaceous gland. Please 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.Pls consult a dermatologist in that case.
I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.