Hello Doctor,
I have a wound that has not healed in over a year. Tiny hair-like pieces are coming out, and there is a yellow discharge. This is on my chin, which has caused my beard hair to fall out and stop growing, and there is another one on my scalp. What could this be? The hair-like pieces are very thin compared to my natural hair; some are black, some are clear/white, and some are light brown.
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
As a dermatologist, it sounds like you might be dealing with a chronic non-healing wound, possibly a sinus tract or a fistula. The hair-like pieces could be related to the lining of the tract or fistula, or they could be granulation tissue. The yellow discharge could be pus, indicating an infection. In some cases, these symptoms can be related to a more complex condition such as hidradenitis suppurativa, a skin condition that creates small, painful lumps under the skin. The lumps can break open, or tunnels can form under the skin.
However, without examining you in person, it’s not possible to provide a definitive diagnosis. It’s crucial that you seek immediate medical attention. You may need a culture of the drainage to identify any bacteria or other organisms that might be present, which can guide treatment. An ultrasound or other imaging modality may be necessary to further evaluate the depth and extent of the wound. I strongly advise you to book an appointment with a dermatologist or a wound care specialist as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep the area clean and avoid picking or scratching at it to prevent any further complications.
Thanks
