What Is a Belly Button Infection?
9. How Is a Belly Button Infection Diagnosed?
When seeing a doctor to discuss a potential belly button infection, be prepared to describe what you have seen, felt, or smelled, and when you first noticed the problem. You will be asked questions to help determine your risk for recurring infections, such as whether you are overweight, have diabetes, sweat excessively, or have a compromised immune system.
The doctor then will examine your belly button to evaluate the severity of your symptoms and to diagnose a cause. He or she may examine a piece of flaked-off skin under a microscope. If discharge, urine, or pus is present, a swab will be used to take a sample for laboratory analysis. A biopsy is not usually required.
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