An Odd Protuberance

The "pimple" that appeared on my chest, weeks ago, is still there and causing minor discomfort. I purchased an Ichthammol Ointment that is a drawing salve designed to bring boils and splinters to a head. It is commonly found in pharmacies. So what is Ichthammol?

Ichthammol, also known as ammonium bituminosulfonate or Ichthyol, is a dark, viscous liquid derived from sulfur-rich oil shale, used topically as a drawing salve and for treating various skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. 

After several days of use, it doesn't appear to be doing very much. A pimple or a boil should eventually come to a head and burst but this "protuberance" is stubbornly resistant. At the same time, my inner pressure caused by my thymoma has become more noticeable and I can only wonder if there isn't some connection. Apart from this little inconvenience, I'm feeling OK and have been doing my band stretches on a regular basis. My weight hovers between 70kg and 71kg.

My condition is best described as chest acne and the photo below is a reasonable approximation of what I seem to be suffering from.

However, the treatment prescribed on this website does not include the use of Ichthammol. Instead, the recommendations are:

• Benzoyl peroxide: This is a topical treatment that is available in creams, gels, and lotions. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and unclogging pores.
  
  
• Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in many OTC acne treatments. It works by exfoliating the skin and unclogging pores.
  
  
• Alpha-hydroxy acids: Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid and lactic acid are used in many OTC acne treatments. They work by exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells, which can help to prevent clogged pores.
  
  
• Sulphur: Sulphur is an ingredient found in some OTC acne treatments. It works by reducing oil production and killing bacteria.
  
  
• Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is a natural ingredient that has antibacterial properties. It can be found in some OTC acne treatments and can be effective in reducing inflammation and killing bacteria.

I think it best to try some of these given that the Ichthammol does not seem to be working. The same site offers some natural remedies as well including:

There are a few natural remedies that may help reduce chest acne, including the previously mentioned tea tree oil:

• Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties and can be applied topically to the skin to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.
  
  
• Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel can help to soothe inflamed skin and reduce redness and irritation.
  
  
• Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural toner to help balance the skin's pH levels and reduce the growth of bacteria. It should be diluted with water before applying it to the skin.
  
  
• Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can be applied topically to the skin to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
  
  
• Green tea: Drinking green tea or applying it topically to the skin may help to reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria.

UPDATE: 

Nothing much seems to work so I've covered with a bandaid again, this time smearing it with Arnica. Desy knew someone who had a similar protuberance removed and the person died after subsequent bleeding couldn't be stemmed. Her advice is to leave well enough alone and just grin and bear it. Maybe it's a conduit for some sort of temporary release and it will fade away over time. My instinct also is to leave it be.