A pilonidal cyst is a skin infection that normally occurs around the buttock. Even though it occasionally shows no symptoms, many individuals experience significant cysts or abscesses in the region. The Colorectal surgeon pilonidal cyst treatment approach is quite effective. They’ll start with the most sensible choice available. The usual method of treating the illness is to make tiny incisions that let the infection drain. If this doesn’t fix the issue, they might suggest a more involved surgical treatment to remove the pilonidal sinuses.

Causes

An infection can appear anywhere along the spine, from the base to the anus, due to pilonidal illness. It is unknown what specifically caused the illness. However, specialists surmise that it frequently happens due to diseased hair follicles.

Although pilonidal illness can affect anyone, men are far more likely than women to contract it. Furthermore, persons between the ages of 40 and teens are more likely to experience it. Also, patients with thick, coarse hair or obesity are more vulnerable to the condition.

Risk Factors

Here are some risk factors for pilonidal cysts:

• Heavy exercise
• Excessive sweating
• Lifting heavy objects
• Excessive hair around the buttock
• Sitting for long hours
• Obesity
• Wearing tight clothing

All these factors can cause follicles to get infected. In other situations, loose hair may get lodged in the crease of the buttock and pierce the skin. A cyst may grow around it at that point.

Symptoms

The buttock crease region is often the site of cysts or abscess development in patients with pilonidal disease. These sores vary in severity. They could occasionally be tiny, dimple-like abscesses. Patients may experience big, inflammatory sores in various situations. These regions may occasionally generate pus, which may smell bad or be bloody. Patients may also experience exhaustion or a fever if the infection is very severe.

The initial infection will eventually go away, either on its own or after receiving medical attention. However, pilonidal sinuses can form in a large number of people. There are hairs in these tiny holes beneath the skin, and they can potentially get inflamed.

Diagnose of Pilonidal Cyst

During the physical examination performed by the colorectal surgeon, he will also interrogate you on several topics, such as:

• Has the appearance of the cyst changed?
• Does it leak any liquid?
• Do you have any more symptoms?

In an extremely rare case, your doctor might request an MRI or CT scan to check for any sinus cavities—small holes—that might have developed beneath the skin’s surface.

Treatment Options For Removing Pilonidal Cyst

If one or more pilonidal cysts are identified in you, a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs will be provided. The following questions will determine the course of treatment:

• Have you ever experienced a pilonidal cyst?
• Have you also had any other skin troubles (such as an abscess or sinus) in the same area?
• How rapidly are you getting better?

Depending on your conditions, your doctor can decide whether to remove your pilonidal cyst surgically or not. Other than surgery, there are several other alternative treatment options, such as:

• Cyst drainage: Your provider’s office is the ideal location for this treatment to take place. To open and remove fluid from your infected cyst, a small incision (cut) will be performed.
• Injections: Phenol, an acidic chemical component, can be used to treat and prevent mild to major pilonidal cysts.
• Antibiotics: They are useful in the treatment of skin irritation. Antibiotics, however, cannot treat pilonidal cysts on their own.
• Laser therapy: Hair that may otherwise develop ingrown and lead to the recurrence of further pilonidal cysts can be removed with laser therapy.

You can attempt to alleviate any discomfort you may have by applying a warm compress to the afflicted area to calm your skin while you wait for your therapy. Another benefit of using an inflated mattress or seat could be less pain.

Will a pilonidal cyst require surgery?

It’s a serious condition and you might require surgery to completely remove the pilonidal cyst if it’s chronic or has become worse and created a sinus cavity under your skin. The surgeon will either leave the region open or close it with sutures.

Taking good care of your incision is essential after any surgical treatment to avoid infection. Similarly, instructions for wound care will be given by the colorectal surgeon. Moreover, will also tell you how long you can keep the area. Also, will inform you about infection warning signals and when to contact your provider.

Common Concerns

Are pilonidal cysts inherited?

A pilonidal cyst may occasionally be inherited (inherited from a family member). Your risk of developing pilonidal cysts may be influenced by your family history, such as if rough body hair runs in your family.

Can someone catch a pilonidal cyst?

Like a pimple, a pilonidal cyst is an inexplicable, non-transmissible skin condition. Ingrown hairs are currently thought to be the source of pilonidal cysts in many research.

I’m pregnant; might I develop a pilonidal cyst?

Pilonidal cysts can occur in pregnant women as well, albeit they are far more common in men. Pain in your buttocks may indicate a pilonidal cyst rather than just a typical pregnant discomfort. In certain circumstances, it’s usually recommended to get in touch with your provider and get tested.