Black salve: risky escharotic.

This is a case report about a 55 year old male patient who used an over the counter product called Black Salve to treat a cyst on his neck. He came to his primary care doctor's office for a usual checkup. Just before leaving his appointment, he mentioned a dark discolored area on his neck appeared after applying the black salve ointment. The black salve caused his skin to break down, get infected, and turn black. He was treated with antibiotics and close follow up care. After the wound healed, he was left with a scar on his neck from where the ointment broke down the skin. Since this product is available without a prescription, it is important that consumers know that it is not safe for use and may cause complications. If in doubt, ask a healthcare provider about a products risks before use.