Abscesses are painful collections of pus that form when a bacterial infection causes an area of the skin to become inflamed and swollen. The infection can spread to the surrounding tissue, causing the walls of the abscess to fill with white blood cells that fight the infection. Abscesses can occur anywhere on the body, but they are most common in areas where the skin has been damaged or irritated, such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks.
Causes of Abscess
The most common cause of abscesses is a bacterial infection. Bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, enter the body through cuts or breaks in the skin. The bacteria then multiply, causing an infection that leads to inflammation and swelling.
Risk Factors for Abscess
People with certain risk factors are more likely to develop abscesses. These include having a weakened immune system due to conditions like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or cancer; having a skin condition like eczema; using steroids; being overweight; and having a history of IV drug use.
Symptoms of Abscess
The most common symptom of an abscess is a painful lump or area of swelling. Other symptoms can include fever, chills, and redness in the area of the abscess.
Diagnosis of Abscess
To diagnose an abscess, a doctor will usually perform a physical exam and ask about the patient’s medical history. The doctor may also order tests, such as a blood test or imaging test, to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of Abscess
The treatment for an abscess will depend on its size and location. In most cases, the abscess will need to be drained in order to get rid of the infection. This can be done in a doctor’s office or in the hospital, depending on the size of the abscess. After the abscess is drained, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection.
