AA skin abscess is a collection of pus caused by infection beneath the skin. It commonly appears as a painful, warm and swollen lump and may develop from a blocked follicle, small skin injury or infected cyst. Once a defined collection has formed, drainage is often the most effective treatment. Delaying care can allow infection to spread into surrounding tissue.
Symptoms
An abscess can begin as a tender area and become increasingly painful, red and tense. The centre may soften or leak pus. Fever, chills, fatigue or spreading redness suggest a more significant infection. Redness may be difficult to see on darker skin, so heat, swelling and worsening pain are important signs.
Risk factors and recurrent abscesses
Abscesses can affect anyone. Diabetes, smoking, immune suppression, obesity and certain skin conditions may increase risk. Repeated abscesses in the armpits or groin may suggest hidradenitis suppurativa. A recurring abscess in the buttock cleft may be caused by pilonidal disease. Identifying the underlying condition is important.
Diagnosis
Examination usually confirms the diagnosis. Ultrasound can help distinguish cellulitis from a deeper collection or guide treatment in an uncertain case. A pus sample may be tested when infection is severe, recurrent, unusual or not responding to initial care.
Treatment
Incision and drainage involves making a small opening so pus can escape. It may be performed under local or general anaesthetic depending on size and location. The cavity may be washed and left open with a dressing. Antibiotics are prescribed when there is spreading infection, systemic illness or specific risk factors, but they do not always replace drainage.
Complications and urgent care
Possible complications include cellulitis, recurrent infection, scarring and, rarely, sepsis. Seek urgent help for rapid deterioration, fever, confusion, fast breathing, extensive redness, facial infection near the eye or severe pain. Do not puncture an abscess at home.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an abscess take to heal after drainage? Healing varies with size and location and may take days to several weeks with dressing care.
Why is the wound left open? Closing an infected cavity can trap bacteria and pus, so open healing may be safer.
Will I need antibiotics? Not everyone does. The decision depends on surrounding infection, symptoms and medical risk factors.