Description

A Pilonidal (pie-low-NIE-dul) cyst is an unusual pocket in the skin that usually contains hair and skin debris. The cyst is almost always near the tailbone at the top of the buttocks.

Pilonidal cysts usually occur when hair punctures the skin and then becomes embedded. If a pilonidal cyst becomes infected, it can be very painful. The cyst can be drained through a small cut in the skin. Sometimes, surgery is needed.

Pilonidal cysts are more common in men, young adults, and the problem tends to repeat itself. People who sit for long periods of time are at greater risk of developing pilonidal cysts.

Symptoms

A pilonidal cyst may not cause symptoms. But if it is infected, the skin around the cyst may be swollen and painful. The symptoms of an infected pilonidal cyst include:

  • A well near the top of the buttocks crease.
  • Pain.
  • Inflamed, inflammation of the skin.
  • Pus or blood that comes out through an opening in the skin.
  • An odor of drainage of pus.

When to see a doctor

If you notice any of the symptoms of a pilonidal cyst, talk to your health care provider.

Causes

The cause of the majority of pilonidal cysts is loose hairs that the puncture of the skin. The pressure and friction of rubbing on the skin, tight clothing, cycling or long periods of sitting can force hair into the skin.

The body creates a cyst in your hair to try to remove it. The most pilonidal cysts that are formed in the ilium. The people that boyfriend of animals or cutting hair, you can develop a cyst between his fingers.

Risk factors

The factors that could increase the risk of a pilonidal cyst include:

  • As a young adult, white, male.
  • The overweight.
  • Having an inactive lifestyle.
  • Sitting for long periods at a time.
  • Have thick, stiff body hair.

Complications

Some people have pilonidal cysts that become infected again and again for a long time. Without treatment, these individuals may be at increased risk of a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.

Prevention

To help prevent pilonidal cysts, try the following:

  • Wash regularly.
  • To achieve or maintain a healthy weight.
  • Avoid prolonged sitting.

If you have had pilonidal cysts in the past, you might want to regularly shave the affected area or the use of hair removal products to reduce the risk of a new cyst.

Diagnosis

Your health care provider can diagnose a pilonidal cyst asking questions about your symptoms, medical history and personal habits and looking at the affected skin.

Treatment

A pilonidal cyst is usually treated in the doctor's office. After numbing the area, the doctor makes a small incision to drain the cyst. If the cyst comes back, you may need surgery.

If you need surgery, your doctor numbs the area and removes the cyst through an incision.

After removal of the cyst, your health care provider may:

  • Leave the wound open. In this option, the surgeon leaves the wound open and packages with the dressing. This allows the area to heal from the inside out. This takes more time, but makes it less likely that the cyst will return.
  • Close the wound with stitches. In this option, the surgeon closes the wound with stitches. This process results in a shortest time of healing, but has a greater risk of the cyst coming back.

Wound care is very important after surgery. Your health care provider will show you how to change the dressings and explain what to expect during the healing process. You'll also be told when to call your health care provider. You may need to shave around the site of the surgery to prevent hair from entering the wound.

Preparing for your appointment

It is likely to start by seeing your primary care provider. In some cases, when you call to schedule an appointment, you may be referred immediately to a surgeon or a doctor who specializes in the treatment of diseases of the skin, it is called a dermatologist.

What you can do

Before your appointment, you can write a list that answers the following questions:

  • When did your symptoms begin?
  • Have you had this problem before?
  • Is there something to improve your symptoms?
  • What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
  • What medications or supplements that you take regularly?

What to expect from your doctor

Your health care provider is likely to ask a series of questions, including:

  • Have you had a fever?
  • Is the pain keep you awake at night?
  • What is your occupation? Do you sit all day?
Symptoms and treatment of a Pilonidal cyst