Pilonidal Disease

Pilonidal disease is a type of skin infection that occurs at the bottom of the tailbone, near the crease of the buttocks. It is characterized by a cyst or abscess that forms in the skin, typically filled with pus and debris.

Causes and Risk Factors

Pilonidal disease is thought to be caused by an ingrown hair or other foreign material that becomes embedded in the skin, leading to inflammation and infection. Certain risk factors can increase a person's likelihood of developing pilonidal disease, including:

• Family history of pilonidal disease
• Obesity
• Sitting for long periods of time
• Poor hygiene
• Previous trauma to the area

Symptoms

The symptoms of pilonidal disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include:

• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Redness and swelling around the cyst or abscess
• Pus or discharge from the cyst or abscess
• Foul odor from the affected area
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes in the groin or armpits

Diagnosis

Pilonidal disease is typically diagnosed based on a physical examination and medical history. A doctor may also perform imaging tests, such as an X-ray or ultrasound, to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Treatments

Treatment for pilonidal disease depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

• Antibiotics to treat infection
• Drainage of the cyst or abscess, either through a small incision or with a needle
• Surgical removal of the cyst or abscess, which may be performed under local or general anesthesia
• Marsupialization, a procedure in which the cyst or abscess is drained and then stitched to the surrounding skin to promote healing
• Laser treatment to remove hair from the affected area and reduce the risk of recurrence
• Wound care and dressing changes to promote healing and prevent infection

Home Care and Prevention

To manage symptoms and prevent recurrence of pilonidal disease, it is recommended to:

• Keep the affected area clean and dry
• Avoid sitting for long periods of time
• Maintain good hygiene and avoid tight clothing
• Avoid shaving or waxing the affected area, as this can irritate the skin and increase the risk of infection
• Use a warm compress to help bring the cyst or abscess to a head and promote drainage

Complications

If left untreated, pilonidal disease can lead to complications such as:

• Chronic infection and scarring
• Abscesses that rupture and spread infection to other parts of the body
• Fistulas, or abnormal connections between the cyst or abscess and other organs or tissues
• Osteomyelitis, or infection of the bone