The lesion in the axilla appears consistent with an inflamed folliculitis → follicular abscess (furuncle), likely triggered by repeated trimming, friction, sweating, or bacterial colonization (commonly Staphylococcus aureus).
The surrounding skin shows mild inflammation, and the lesion looks tense, suggesting localized abscess formation rather than simple folliculitis.
There are no red-flag signs of spreading cellulitis in the photo.
Management Plan
1. Systemic Antibiotic
(Choose one; 5–7 days)
• Amoxicillin–clavulanate 625 mg BD
OR
• Clindamycin 300 mg TDS
OR
• Cephalexin 500 mg QID
If recurrent episodes → consider MRSA-sensitive antibiotic depending on local pattern.
2. Anti-inflammatory + Analgesic
• Ibuprofen 400 mg TDS for 2–3 days
(avoid if gastritis; otherwise safe)
3. Warm Compresses
• Apply warm compress for 10–15 min, 3–4 times/day
This helps liquefaction and spontaneous drainage.
4. Topical Therapy
• Mupirocin 2% ointment
Apply BID for 7 days
Helps reduce S. aureus colonization.
5. Avoid squeezing or attempting self-incision
This risks deeper infection or cellulitis.
Next Steps
When I&D Is Needed
If:
• The lesion becomes fluctuant
• There is increasing tenderness
• Spontaneous pointing/pus formation
→ Simple incision and drainage under sterile OPD conditions provides rapid relief.
Health Tips
Most recurrences follow hair trimming or shaving due to microtrauma.
Advise:
• Use trimmer on higher guard, avoid very close cuts
• Avoid shaving
• Keep the area dry
• Use antiseptic wash (chlorhexidine) 2–3 times/week
• After trimming, apply mupirocin for 2 days
• Consider nasal mupirocin BID x 5 days if recurrent → for decolonization of S. aureus
If lesions are recurrent or multiple, evaluate for:
•
Diabetes
• Obesity
• Hidradenitis suppurativa (if chronic, double-headed lesions, scarring)