Suggest Treatment For Bacterial Skin Infection

Posted on Wed, 21 Sep 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 21 Sep 2016 Answered on

Wed, 12 Oct 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello. My name is XXXXXXX I am a healthcare worker. I have a presentation of approximately 10 dispersed asymmetrical round red eruptions on my hands and arms (L>R). These eruptions are not associated with pain, discomfort, itching, bleeding and do not appear purulent. They are generally 2-4 mm in diameter. They are of recent onset, (<1 week). I have a childhood history of chicken pox. I had a previous presentation x1 year of similar cluster eruptions on my right upper arm that a dermatologist initially misdiagnosed me with shingles. Biopsy later confirmed folliculitis.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Bacterial skin infection...most probably folliculitis...

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX

I have gone through your medical history carefully and the photos you provided.

From what I've seen, it seems to be related to early stage of bacterial skin infection, most probably folliculitis, and no shingles.

Clean with warm water and soap, apply betadine and see changes.

If they keep spreading, apart local hygienic measures, I also suggest to start oral antibiotics and use topical antibiotic ointment.

Hope it was of help. Let me know if you have further queries.
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar