Skin abscess

Skin abscess

Definition:

Skin abscess is a collection of pus and infected material in or on the skin.

Alternative Names:

Abscess - skin; Cutaneous abscess; Subcutaneous abscess

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Skin abscesses are fairly common. They are caused when a localized infection causes pus and infected material to collect in the skin or subcutaneous tissue. Skin abscesses may follow a bacterial infection, commonly an infection with staphylococcus (staph aureus is most common). They can develop after a minor wound, injury, or as a complication of folliculitis or boils (furuncles, carbuncles). Skin abscesses may occur anywhere on the body. They affect people of all ages.

The abscess can obstruct and impinge on the functioning of deeper tissues. The infection may spread locally or systemically. The spread of infection through the bloodstream may cause severe complications.

Symptoms:

Skin lesion
- Open sore or closed, domed nodule
- Reddened
- May drain fluid
Localized swelling, induration
Affected area is tender and warm to touch

Signs and tests:

The diagnosis is based on the appearance of the area.

Culture or examination of drainage from the lesion may reveal the causative organism.

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to cure the infection. Surgical incision and drainage of the abscess, with or without packing for 24 to 48 hours, cleans the area and allows infection to be controlled. Antibiotics such as dicloxacillin are given to control the infection.

Heat (such as warm compresses) may speed healing, reduce inflammation, and reduce discomfort. Elevate the affected part to reduce swelling and inflammation.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most skin abscesses are curable with treatment.

Complications:

Localized spread of infection
Impingement on the functioning of adjacent structures
Gangrene (tissue death)
Systemic spread of infection causing:
- Endocarditis
- Osteomyelitis
- Multiple new abscesses ("seeding" of infection)
- Abscess formation on the joints, pleura, or other locations

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if signs of superficial skin infection occur, including fever, pain, redness, localized swelling, or drainage of any kind.

Also call for an appointment with your health care provider if new symptoms develop during or after treatment for skin abscess.

Prevention:

Prevent and watch for bacterial infections. Keep the skin around minor wounds clean and dry. Consult the health care provider if you develop signs of infection, including fever, pain, redness, localized swelling, or drainage that looks like pus or is bloody. Treat superficial (minor) infections promptly.

Review Date: 8/6/2001
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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