How To Remove Black Scab On Back?

Posted on Wed, 20 Aug 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 20 Aug 2014 Answered on

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a black hard scab on my back should I remove it?
I guess I should have also mentioned that it is on my back toward the center. and I have had it going on to 3 weeks.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (28 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Ecthyma

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to healthcaremagic

I am Dr. Kakkar. I have gone through your query.

This looks like Ecthyma to me. It is a type of bacterial infection which extends deeper into the skin/dermis. You may remove the crust, it would expose a raw area in skin which you need to take care, avoid contamination and apply a topical antibacterial ointment e.g Mupirocin 2% ointment, twice daily.

I would also suggest a week of an oral antibiotic e.g Cephalexin 500 mg (Keflex) thrice daily for a week Or Ciprofloxacin 500 mg twice daily for a week

Topically, you may use an OTC antibacterial e.g Mupirocin 2% ointment, twice daily.

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar