What is pilonidal sinus?
It is a small hole or tunnel in the skin which is filled with fluid or pus, causing the formation of a cyst or abscess.
The pilonidal disease results from rupturing of the hair follicle under the skin and bacterial enters through it leading to inflammation, draining sinuses, the formation of fistula or abscesses.
It is a chronic skin infection in the crease between the buttocks i.e. sacrococcygeal region.
What causes pilonidal sinus?
-Obese
-Inactive lifestyle
-Age between puberty to 40 years
-Family predisposition
-Trauma or irritation in the area
-Excess body hair
-Coarse, curly or crinkly hair
-Sitting for long periods
What is the sign and symptoms?
-Redness or swelling
-Localized swelling over the lower back
-Skin warm to touch
-Pus or blood draining from the abscess
-Pain while walking or sitting
-Fever, malaise
Is pilonidal sinus cancerous?
No, it is not cancerous, pilonidal sinus is not life-threatening, but if untreated can cause a lot of discomfort and suffering.
Can a pilonidal sinus come back?
No, in some cases, even after surgery, the cyst can come back. The reasons for this is unknown.
What are the complications?
-severe pain
-inflamed, swollen skin
-a temperature of 100.4°F or higher
-blood and pus oozing from the wound site
-a foul odor coming from the wound
