Severe Skin Outbreak Sparks Online Concern — Experts Urge Medical Caution

Image circulating on social media has captured widespread attention, showing the severe back of an unidentified individual covered in inflamed, pus-filled lesions and nodules. The image, which appears to be a still from a viral “swipe up to watch” video advertisement, has raised public concern and speculation about its origin and authenticity.

What the Image Shows

The image shows a person’s upper back with what appear to be multiple deep cystic lesions, pustules, and open sores, many of which appear to be infected or ulcerated. The visual severity of the skin condition has prompted viewers to speculate whether the cause is cystic acne, a staph infection, monkeypox, or even an extreme allergic or dermatological reaction.

However, with no confirmed medical source or context tied to the photo, experts warn against drawing conclusions based solely on viral content.

“Images like this often circulate without proper context, which can cause fear or misinformation,” says Dr. Alina Vasquez, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago. “While the skin condition shown appears serious, diagnosis should only be made by a licensed medical professional after an in-person examination.”

Possible Conditions (According to Experts)

Some skin conditions that can cause similar lesions include:

• Cystic Acne – A severe form of acne that results in deep, painful cysts and nodules.

• Hidradenitis Suppurativa – A chronic skin condition that causes painful bumps, often in areas where skin rubs together.

• Bacterial Skin Infections (e.g. MRSA) – May cause abscesses or boils with pus, which can look like what is shown.

• Cutaneous Tuberculosis or Fungal Infections – Rare, but can cause disfiguring skin lesions.

• Skin Manifestations of Systemic Illnesses – Some autoimmune or infectious diseases can appear in the skin.