A pilonidal abscess, or cyst, is a painful growth near the buttock cleft that often contains hair and skin debris. It is more common in young Caucasian males and can be caused by ingrown hairs and skin rubbing. Treatment involves draining the abscess and removing hair, with more invasive surgery required for recurring abscesses. Prevention includes avoiding prolonged sitting, weight loss, and good hygiene.
A pilonidal abscess, commonly referred to as a pilonidal cyst, is an abscess that develops near or in the buttock cleft. The word pilonidal means nest of hair in Latin and refers to the fact that most pilonidal abscesses contain skin and hair debris. Men are more likely to suffer from a pilonidal abscess than women. More specifically, the condition is most common in Caucasian males between the ages of 15 and 24. While the condition can occur in older individuals, it is rare, especially after the age of 40.
The most obvious symptom of a pilonidal abscess is pain in the buttocks and lower spine. Additional symptoms may include general redness, swelling, and warmth of the skin around the buttocks. These abscesses frequently become infected, and when this happens, pus and other fluids usually drain from the sore. In rare cases, an infection of the abscess can lead to fever and nausea.
Common causes of pilonidal abscesses include ingrown hairs and constant instances of skin-against-skin rubbing. Long periods of sitting or friction from activities such as cycling are known to contribute to the formation of a pilonidal cyst. During World War II, many soldiers who drove jeeps developed the condition, as a result of sitting for long periods while driving on rough roads.
A pilonidal abscess that has become infected will not get better or go away on its own; medical treatment is needed to remove the growth. This involves first draining the abscess and then removing all the hair surrounding the wound so it doesn’t come back. This is a minor, if uncomfortable, procedure that can usually be done in a doctor’s office or emergency room.
In some cases of recurring abscesses, more invasive surgery may be required. In these cases, a surgeon will fully expose the cyst and remove all debris. After this, the surgeon will either close the wound with stitches or leave it open to heal on its own from the inside. While closing the wound with stitches allows for a faster recovery, it also leads to a greater chance of the condition returning.
The best way to avoid a pilonidal abscess is to avoid sitting for extended periods. Since the condition is more common in the obese, weight loss may also help eliminate the risk of getting a cyst. Good hygiene is also an important aspect of preventing pilonidal cysts. People with excess hair on their lower backs may want to shave or use a hair removal cream to reduce the chances of an ingrown hair leading to a cyst.
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