A red, raised bump has appeared on the thigh. It keeps coming back after falling off. What could be causing this, and what should I do?
A red, raised bump on the thigh that keeps recurring after falling off may be caused by intertrigo, folliculitis, eczema, or other conditions. Treatment should be based on the specific cause. Details are as follows:
1. Intertrigo
This condition commonly occurs in skin folds such as the groin and armpits, and may be related to local skin moisture, excessive sweating, repeated friction, and irritation. After onset, well-demarcated red papules and erythematous plaques may appear. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as levocetirizine hydrochloride granules or olapatadine hydrochloride tablets can be used for treatment.
2. Folliculitis
This is typically a purulent inflammation of the entire hair follicle caused by bacterial infection, characterized by papules. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets or antofloxacin hydrochloride tablets can be used for treatment.
3. Eczema
Eczema tends to occur when the body's immune function is impaired or when an allergic reaction takes place. If eczema develops in the groin area of the thigh, red papules may appear, most of which are accompanied by itching. Under medical supervision, topical treatments such as desonide cream or tacrolimus ointment can be applied.
In addition to the above causes, similar symptoms may also result from sebaceous cysts, jock itch (tinea cruris), or body ringworm (tinea corporis). It is recommended to wear loose, comfortable clothing, preferably made of cotton.