Skin problems after surgery

[Roses0613]

I had a lumpectomy & results were non-cancerous.  I have been experience on-going issues with the area on the incision site and as more time has passed the problems spread to other areas of that breast.  I have seen the surgeon (everything healed up fine according to him), my primary physician and have been working with a dermotoligist.  I have had many tests done: skin biopsy, bacteria tests, fungal tests; all of those came out negative.  The incision site is where it all starts, it oozes and starts to look like a sore and itches.  If left untreated it spreads.  Steriod cream helps stop the symptoms, but never cures it.  It always comes back after some time. I and the doctors just can't seem to find any answers and I am curious to know if anyone out there has experieced this or has seen this as a professional.  I will probably be having surgery again to see what is going on inside the breast, but until then I am just looking for any kind of help that can lead me to solving this mystery.

[Roses0613]

Thank you, I really appreciate your response.  I actually have another appointment with the Dermotoligist tomorrow and will mention those two types of scars.  It has been almost 1 1/2 years since the surgery and it's really taking a toll on me.  So I hope answers come soon.  Thank you again!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From your symptoms since bacterial, fungal and skin biopsy tests have come out negative, hypertrophic scar and keloid formation also need to be ruled out. Hypertrophic scars are not dangerous and improve with age but keloid scars can itch or become irritated if they grown in size and show some rubbing with the clothes. I suggest you to consult a dermatologist and take a second opinion to confirm the diagnosis.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.