Final answer:
A big pimple on the arm with redness and inflammation near a recent cut is likely indicative of an infection, potentially bacterial. An inflammatory response triggered by the injury is a defense mechanism by the body to combat the intrusion of pathogens. Medical attention and possibly antibiotics are needed to manage the infection and prevent it from worsening.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient comes in complaining of a big pimple on their arm near a recent cut, along with redness and inflammation, it would be suspicious of an infection. In fact, when the skin has been breached, such as by a cut or scrape, the area can become red, warm, and painful due to an inflammatory response, indicating the body's defense against potential pathogens. If a lesion starts oozing pus as in the case with Sam, a college student mentioned in the Clinical Focus, this may suggest a bacterial infection. It's crucial to not only treat these symptoms with proper cleaning and possibly antibiotics but also to monitor them for signs of worsening infection. For instance, increased redness, swelling, and pain after an injury are critical to watch for, as they could signify the infection is spreading or getting worse, necessitating additional medical attention.