Growing Spot on My Son's Face
My son has developed a spot on his face that continues to enlarge. I've mentioned this issue in several online forums, where others suggested it might be an old case of contact dermatitis, as per our doctor's assessment. However, since that consultation, the spot has increased in size, and I am eager to find a solution to help him. Additionally, there's a small blemish located under his chin and another on his leg. The largest one appears scaly and features tiny yellowish crusts surrounding a red area. He doesn’t report any itching or discomfort, except that he felt irritation once when I applied sunscreen. Following medical advice, I've been applying Vaseline to the affected areas after previously trying over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. Now, my mother is also getting tallow cream to apply. I am unable to share images here, but you can view my initial message on my profile. Unfortunately, I'm not receiving much input from those online groups. Thank you for your assistance! Basic details: - Age: 5 - Height: 3.5 feet - Non-smoker - No known allergies to medication or food.
Answers (1)
8/13/2025, 12:21:05 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about the growth on your son's face, especially given that it is enlarging and causing irritation. Based on your description, the characteristics of the spot (scaly with yellowish crusts and surrounding redness) suggest it may require more attention than simple dermatitis.
Explanation:
The fact that the spot is growing, even after treatment with hydrocortisone cream, indicates that it may not be responding as expected. While contact dermatitis is a possibility, conditions like a bacterial infection, fungal infection (like ringworm), or even elements of eczema could also cause similar symptoms.
The appearance of crusting and scaling is also a typical feature of certain skin infections or conditions. Hence, while products like Vaseline can help maintain moisture, they may not address the underlying issue if it is infectious or inflammatory.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes, noting if the size or appearance of the spot worsens or if new spots develop.
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Limit Irritants: Avoid using sunscreen or other topical products on the affected areas until assessed further, especially since it caused irritation previously.
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Keep the Area Clean: Gently wash the affected area with mild soap and water daily and avoid picking or scratching it.
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Use Antibacterial Soap: If it's safe (under guidance for a child), consider using an antibacterial soap during cleaning, but only if there are no signs of an open wound or excessive irritation.
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Document Changes: Take clear notes on the spot's evolution, including size, changes in color, and any new symptoms (like itching or pain). This will be useful for any future medical consultations.
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Consult a Pediatric Dermatologist: It’s essential to seek a professional opinion since the growth is persistent and showing signs of change. Ideally, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist who specializes in children’s skin issues, to gauge the best treatment options.
With proactive monitoring and care, you can work towards finding an effective solution for your son. Please feel free to reach out if you have further questions or need more guidance.
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