Cellulitis or IBC

sandema1226

I started a round of antibiotics for cellulitis on my breast on Tuesday afternoon. It is now Thursday morning, and there is no change. The spot is about a half dollar in size, red with peau d orange, and a bright red streak coming out of the top. When should I insist on a biopsy

Meadow

Sandema, I am not a medical person, but I can share some of my own diagnosis story. I too took antibiotics for some breast changes that my general doctor thought might respond to antibiotics. This is common with IBC, to first be treated with antibiotics, or to be misdiagnosed. It is rare and most Doctors have never seen it in their practice, and never will. After the anitibiotics did not resolve my breast changes, my doc ordered an ultrasound, which is a good diagnostic tool for IBC, then confirmed with biopsy. I cannot advise when you should ask for a biopsy, but I do know you sometimes have to be your own advocate. Sometimes you have to insist for more from the experts. Ask your doctor how long you are going to give the antibiotics a chance, then go with your gut. Be persistant But do not panic. Chances are on your side it is something else. Please update us to let us know what you find out. Hugs to you

Traveltext

I second Meadow's advice.

sandema1226

The spot is looking better this morning at about 64 hours into taking antibiotics. The redness is fading and there are signs of healing. I am going to make an appointment for Monday to have the doc take alook and make sure everything is on the right track. Knowing my skin, it will take weeks for the redness to resolve completely.

mustlovepoodles

Well, that's encouraging. IBC never gets better, only rapidly worse over a matter of hours or days.

I suggest you complete your course of antibiotics, then see your doctor or a dermatologist if it continues to be a problem