What is an Abscess?
An abscess is a painful collection of pus caused by bacterial infection. It can form in any part of the body but most commonly occurs in the skin (cutaneous abscess).
Common Causes
- Bacterial infections (especially Staphylococcus aureus)
- Blocked oil or sweat glands
- Minor trauma or injuries to the skin
- Weakened immune system
- Poor hygiene
Key Symptoms
- Painful, swollen area
- Redness of surrounding skin
- Warmth around the affected area
- Formation of a bump or mass
- Possible fever in severe cases
Risk Factors
- Compromised immune system
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Close contact with someone who has a skin infection
- Poor personal hygiene
Treatment Options
Medical Procedures
- Incision and drainage (I&D)
- Antibiotics (when necessary)
- Wound packing
Home Care
- Warm compresses
- Proper wound care
- Good hygiene practices
Prevention
- Practice good personal hygiene
- Keep skin clean and dry
- Treat cuts and scrapes promptly
- Avoid sharing personal items
When to Seek Medical Care
- Large or deep abscesses
- Severe pain
- Spreading redness
- Fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C)
- Abscesses on face or sensitive areas
Recovery and Follow-up
- Keep the area clean
- Complete prescribed antibiotics
- Attend follow-up appointments
- Monitor for signs of recurrence