Which department should I visit for a lump in the buttock crease?

If a lump appears in the buttock crease, you can visit departments such as dermatology, proctology (colorectal surgery), general surgery, infectious diseases, or urology, depending on the nature of the lump and associated symptoms. For example, if the lump is red, swollen, and painful, it's advisable to first see dermatology or proctology. Seek immediate medical attention if the lump rapidly enlarges, ulcerates with pus discharge, or is accompanied by fever.

1. **Dermatology**: Suitable for lumps presenting with redness, swelling, itching, rashes, or pustules. This department can diagnose skin conditions such as folliculitis, eczema, or furuncles, and provide topical medications or physical therapies to relieve symptoms, determining whether the condition is due to skin infection or inflammatory disease.

2. **Proctology (Colorectal Surgery)**: If the lump is accompanied by anal pain, rectal bleeding, abnormal bowel movements, or is located near the anus, it may indicate anorectal conditions such as perianal abscess or hemorrhoids. Specialized examinations in this department can confirm the diagnosis, and surgical treatment may be performed when necessary.

3. **General Surgery**: When the lump feels hard, has unclear borders, or is suspected to be a subcutaneous nodule or lipoma, patients should visit general surgery. Imaging tests such as ultrasound can help evaluate the characteristics of the lump and determine whether surgical removal is needed.

4. **Infectious Diseases Department**: If the lump is accompanied by fever, significant local redness, heat, and pain, or if there's suspicion of tuberculous nodules or special bacterial infections, the infectious diseases department can perform pathogen testing to identify the type of infection and initiate targeted anti-infective treatment.

5. **Urology**: If the lump is close to the genitourinary system or accompanied by urinary discomfort, frequent urination, or urgency, it might be related to inflammation or cysts involving the genitourinary system. Urologists can assess urinary function simultaneously, identify the underlying cause, and provide appropriate management.

For daily care, maintain cleanliness and dryness of the buttock crease area, wear loose, breathable cotton clothing, avoid prolonged sitting that causes friction on the lump, follow a light diet avoiding spicy and irritating foods, and do not squeeze the lump yourself to prevent worsening of infection.