PILONIDAL CYST

General Information

DEFINITION--A small, hair-containing skin sac at the base of the spine. The cyst looks like a small opening--sometimes no more than a dimple--with a few hairs protruding. It is prone to infection. Pilonidal cysts are uncommon in black people.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Skin.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Both sexes, but more common in men. Cyst infections usually begin in young adulthood (ages 18 to 40).

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS--

No symptoms when not infected. When infected, it causes:

• Pain, redness, tenderness and swelling in the area.
• Fever and chills.
• Discharge of pus.

CAUSES--The cyst is a minor abnormality that occurs during fetal development. Infection is usually caused by staphylococcal bacteria.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Heavy perspiration. Obesity increases perspiration.
• Tight clothing.

HOW TO PREVENT

• Bathe or shower daily to keep the area clean. Hot tub baths seem more effective in preventing infection of the cyst.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid overweight.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• Laboratory culture of the discharge.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Self-care after diagnosis.
• Doctor's treatment.
• Treatment for infected cysts usually consists of incision and drainage of the abscess, or occasionally, surgical excision of the whole infected area.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS--Spread of infection (rare).

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Infection curable with antibiotic treatment and surgery.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES

• If the cyst is infected, take warm baths to relieve pain. Sit in a tub of warm water for 10 to 15 minutes as often as it feels good.
• If surgery is necessary, see Pilonidal Cyst Removal (in Surgery section) for an explanation of the surgery and postoperative care.

MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to fight infection.

ACTIVITY--No restrictions, unless the cyst becomes infected. Then, limit activities until the infection is cured.

DIET--Lose weight if you are overweight.

Call Your Doctor If

> You have symptoms of a pilonidal cyst. It should be diagnosed.

• After diagnosis, a cyst shows signs of infection.