Dog Bite to the Lip: Prompt Dermatologic Care in Katy & Houston, Texas
Dr. Ashley Baldree
Case Overview
A 55-year-old female new patient presented to Village Dermatology after sustaining a dog bite to the right lower lip earlier the same morning. She reported pain, redness, and moderate severity at the site of injury. Facial dog bites require prompt evaluation due to the risk of infection, scarring, and involvement of sensitive structures.
Clinical Examination
A focused examination of the head and face was performed using dermoscopy. The patient was well developed, well nourished, alert, oriented, and in no acute distress. Examination revealed puncture wounds on the right inferior vermilion lip, consistent with a recent dog bite. No signs of systemic infection were present at the time of evaluation.
Diagnosis: Dog Bite (Initial Encounter)
The patient was diagnosed with a dog bite to the lower lip, a common but potentially serious type of animal bite. Facial dog bites are carefully managed due to higher infection risk and cosmetic concerns.
Treatment Plan for Dog Bite Management
The patient was counseled extensively on wound care and infection prevention. Key components of the treatment plan included:
Infection Prevention
Oral antibiotics: Amoxicillin-clavulanate prescribed twice daily for 10 days
Topical antibiotic: Mupirocin ointment applied twice daily until healed
Dog bites are not sutured due to increased infection risk, especially when puncture wounds are present.
Wound Care Instructions
Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water
Perform vinegar soaks (1:1 ratio) for 5 minutes, up to three times daily
Apply mupirocin ointment after soaks
Monitor closely for signs of infection
The patient was instructed to seek emergency care if she develops fever, chills, increasing redness, swelling, or worsening pain.
Scar Prevention Counseling
The importance of meticulous wound care to minimize scarring was emphasized. The patient was advised to allow complete healing before pursuing scar treatments. Silicone-based scar therapy will be discussed at follow-up.
Additional Counseling for Animal Bites
The patient was educated on:
The importance of identifying the animal involved
Possible need for rabies evaluation if the animal cannot be observed
Tetanus vaccination considerations
When emergency department evaluation is necessary
Additional Finding: Verruca Vulgaris
During the visit, verruca vulgaris (common warts) were also noted on the left distal dorsal forearm. The patient was counseled on treatment options including topical therapies and cryotherapy, with expectations for resolution discussed.
Expert Dermatologic Care for Animal Bites in Katy & Houston
At Village Dermatology, we provide prompt evaluation and treatment of dog bites and facial wounds, focusing on infection prevention, proper healing, and minimizing long-term scarring. Our dermatologists serve patients throughout Katy and Houston, Texas, offering expert care for both urgent and routine skin concerns.
If you experience an animal bite or facial injury, early dermatologic evaluation is essential for the best outcome.
