I have a cyst-like thing on my ear which is inflamed. What is it?

Hi,

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Thanks for the briefing regarding the problem in concern. I had a detailed look at the picture (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity) you have sent. You have developed a furuncle over the ear with accumulated pus in it. This usually happens in infections involving the hair follicle beneath the skin. This is not shingles (herpes), nor it has any relation to COVID. You can consider the following treatment advice. 1. Please do not try to squeeze out the pus in it as the infection and inflammation can spread. 2. Tablet Ciprofloxacin 500 mg one tablet in the morning and evening after food for one week. Please complete the course even if the lesion completely disappears. This antibiotic should not be taken if you had previous allergic reactions to this drug or if you are pregnant now. 3. Tablet Aceclofenac plus Paracetamol combination (whichever brand is available in your country) one tablet in the morning and evening after food for four days. 4. Keep a gap of 25 minutes between tablets mentioned in 2 and 3. 5. If you happen to develop gastritis or tummy upset with the antibiotic mentioned above, you can take tablet Pantoprazole 40 mg one tablet in the morning 40 minutes before food for the next one week. 6. Framycetin ointment to be applied over the lesion. 7. Keep the area dry and avoid contact with water. This typically takes 48 to 72 hours to resolve. The pus will slowly come out on its own and form a scab which will slowly fall off. After the pus has come out completely, you might have diluted blood called seroma coming out for a couple of days, and then it will completely resolve. There is absolutely nothing that you need to worry about. I hope this answers your query. If there is anything more that you need to know or enquire about, please do let us know, and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Warm regards.