An abdominal abscess is a painful pocket of pus, debris, and blood cells caused by bacteria that infects surrounding tissue. It is often caused by other medical conditions and may require antibiotics, drainage, or surgery for treatment. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, chills, and fever. Prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent further complications.
An abdominal abscess is very similar to an abscess that appears on the skin, being a pocket or boil filled with pus, debris, and blood cells. They are generally caused by bacteria that get under or into the skin and start infecting surrounding tissue. As the pouch grows, it can become very painful and tender, and can cause abdominal pain and irritation.
In most cases, an abdominal abscess forms due to other medical conditions such as a ruptured appendix or a parasitic infection. These conditions can create vulnerable areas of the abdomen where bacteria can easily invade. Unlike an external abscess on the skin, an abdominal abscess may not be apparent until it’s large enough to cause symptoms. Common symptoms may include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, chills, and fever.
The primary treatment for an abdominal abscess includes the use of antibiotics and a catheter which is used to drain pus and other contents. It is usually inserted through the skin into the abscess and left in place until there is no sign of infection. In very severe cases, patients may require surgery to remove the abscess at its source.
Diagnosing an abdominal abscess may require the use of an ultrasound, X-ray, or computed tomography (CT) scan. More rarely, minor surgery may be needed to diagnose the abscess. In most patients, it can be treated successfully without the need for surgical removal.
In very severe cases, an abdominal abscess may rupture and start draining the infection into the abdominal cavity. The pus contained within the wound is highly contagious and can result in widespread infection. This may require heavy use of strong intravenously administered antibiotics and removal of residual drainage if possible. A full recovery will be possible in most cases, but those with compromised immune systems may find it difficult to recover after a serious infection.
Because the symptoms of an abdominal abscess are very similar to those of other conditions, patients who have had any type of abdominal surgery or who have had certain medical conditions should be diligent in noting any unusual symptoms. Any abdominal pain or discomfort should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately. With prompt medical attention, most abscesses can be treated easily with few side effects. Because they are highly contagious, especially once broken, ongoing monitoring or treatment may be required.
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