MyMediktor - Pilonidal cyst

Low urgency

This is an infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue at the top of the intergluteal fold, above the coccyx bone.

It is caused by an infection of a pore with hair that grows inside it.

The most common symptoms are acute pain, inflammation, secretion of pus and bleeding.

Diagnosis is reached through the clinical history and a physical assessment.

The initial treatment is drainage and antibiotics. If it comes back, then surgery is required.

Bibliographic references

Daniel J Sullivan, MD, MPH. Intergluteal pilonidal disease: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis. UpToDate, Marzo, 2015.
Khanna A. Pilonidal disease. Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2011; 24:46.
Jones DJ. ABC of colorectal diseases. Pilonidal sinus. BMJ 1992; 305:410.
da Silva JH. Pilonidal cyst: cause and treatment. Dis Colon Rectum 2000; 43:1146.
Kitchen P. Pilonidal sinus - management in the primary care setting. Aust Fam Physician 2010; 39:372.

Author

Dr. Patricia Sánchez

Symptoms

Collection of pus in the upper fold between the buttocks

Pus in the anus

Red and swollen anus

Pain around the anus

Pain in anus

Fever that doesn't subside with antipyretics (paracetamol, ibuprofen)

Symptom persistence for more than two weeks after the initial treatment

Place a warm, damp cloth over the area to help the cyst drain.

Avoid scratching, squeezing, "bursting" the cyst.

Maintain the hygiene of both hands and nails.

Consume over-the-counter analgesics and antipyretics in case of muscle pain or fever (Tº > 38ºC).

Check with your general practitioner about the prescription for antibiotics.