Abscess:

Abscess is a localized collection of pus within body tissues caused by an infection. It occurs when the body’s immune response traps bacteria, dead cells, and debris in a pocket, leading to inflammation and swelling. Abscesses can form on the skin or inside the body and can become painful and dangerous if left untreated.

Types of Abscesses

Is It Safe to Drain an Abscess at Home? - GoodRx

Skin Abscess (Boil or Furuncle)
- Commonly occurs under the skin on areas like the face, neck, armpits, groin, or buttocks
- Symptoms: Red, swollen lump filled with pus, warm to the touch, and painful
Internal Abscess
- Develops inside the body (e.g., abdominal, liver, lung, or brain abscess)
- Can be harder to detect and more serious than skin abscesses
- Symptoms depend on the location and can include fever, chills, and pain in the affected area
Dental Abscess
- Forms at the root of a tooth due to bacterial infection
- Symptoms: Severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the face, and foul-tasting discharge
Perianal or Pilonidal Abscess
- Perianal abscess: Near the anus, often associated with anal gland infection
- Pilonidal abscess: Forms at the base of the spine due to hair follicle infection

Causes of Abscess

Abscesses form when bacteria, fungi, or parasites invade body tissue and the immune system responds by walling off the infection. Common causes include:

Bacterial infections (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus)
Obstructed glands or hair follicles (e.g., acne or ingrown hairs)
Injuries or trauma that allow bacteria to enter the body
Weakened immune system (e.g., diabetes, HIV, cancer)

Symptoms of an Abscess

Localized swelling and redness
Warmth and tenderness in the affected area
Pus-filled lump that may drain fluid spontaneously
Fever and chills (indicating a more serious infection)
Pain and restricted movement if near a joint or muscle
Fatigue and general malaise in internal abscess cases

Complications if Left Untreated

Septicemia (Blood Infection): Bacteria can spread to the bloodstream, causing life-threatening sepsis.
Chronic Infection: The abscess can persist or form a fistula (an abnormal connection between organs or skin).
Organ Damage: Internal abscesses can cause permanent damage to vital organs like the liver, lungs, or brain.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Physical Examination (for skin abscesses)
- Red, tender, and swollen lump filled with pus
Imaging Tests (for internal abscesses)
- Ultrasound: To identify fluid-filled pockets
- CT or MRI scans: To detect internal abscesses and determine their size and location
Lab Tests
- Blood tests to check for elevated white blood cell counts
- Pus culture to identify the infecting organism

Skin abscess: Pictures, symptoms, causes, and treatment

Treatment Options

Incision and Drainage (Primary Treatment)
- A small cut is made to drain the pus and relieve pressure
- Often done under local anesthesia for skin abscesses
Antibiotics
- Not always necessary for small abscesses, but required if:
  - There is cellulitis (spreading skin infection)
  - The patient has a weakened immune system
  - The abscess is internal or difficult to drain
- Common antibiotics: Clindamycin, Cephalexin, or Amoxicillin-Clavulanate
Surgical Drainage (for Internal Abscesses)
- Requires imaging guidance and possibly general anesthesia
- Performed by inserting a catheter to drain the abscess
Home Care for Small Abscesses
- Apply warm compresses to reduce swelling and encourage drainage
- Keep the area clean and avoid squeezing the abscess
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen

Prevention Tips

Maintain good hygiene: Regular hand washing and skin care
Treat skin injuries properly: Clean and cover cuts to prevent infection
Avoid sharing personal items: Towels, razors, and clothing can spread bacteria
Manage underlying health conditions: Diabetes and immune disorders increase the risk of abscess formation

Abscesses: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and ER Treatment - ER of Texas