Overview
A pilonidal cyst is an unusual pocket in the skin that usually contains hair and skin debris. It is typically located near the tailbone at the top of the buttocks. Pilonidal cysts occur when hair punctures the skin and becomes embedded, often causing infection. Symptoms of an infected pilonidal cyst may include a pit near the top of the buttocks crease, pain, inflamed swollen skin, pus or blood leaking from an opening in the skin, and an odor from draining pus. Risk factors for developing pilonidal cysts include being a young adult white male, being overweight, having an inactive lifestyle, and sitting for long periods of time. Treatment options may involve draining the cyst or surgical intervention, and maintaining good hygiene, achieving a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged sitting can help prevent recurrence.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of a pilonidal cyst may include:
- A pit near the top of the buttocks crease.
- Pain.
- Inflamed, swollen skin.
- Pus or blood leaking from an opening in the skin.
- An odor from draining pus. If a pilonidal cyst becomes infected, it can be very painful. The symptoms of an infected pilonidal cyst can include all of the above symptoms. It is important to see a health care provider if you notice any symptoms of a pilonidal cyst.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing pilonidal cysts include:
- Being a young adult white male.
- Being overweight.
- Having an inactive lifestyle.
- Sitting for long periods at a time.
- Having thick, stiff body hair. These factors may increase the likelihood of developing a pilonidal cyst.
Development
Pilonidal cysts typically form when hair punctures the skin and becomes embedded, causing the body to create a cyst around the hair to try to push it out. This usually occurs near the tailbone at the top of the buttocks. Factors that might increase the risk of developing a pilonidal cyst include being a young adult white male, being overweight, having an inactive lifestyle, sitting for long periods at a time, and having thick, stiff body hair.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you notice any symptoms of a pilonidal cyst, such as a pit near the top of the buttocks crease, pain, inflamed or swollen skin, pus or blood leaking from an opening in the skin, or an odor from draining pus, you should see your health care provider.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a pilonidal cyst, your health care provider may ask about your symptoms, medical history, and personal habits, and then examine the affected skin. In some cases, they may also perform imaging tests or fluid analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of pilonidal cysts can include:
- Chronic infection: Pilonidal cysts can become infected, causing pain, swelling, and pus. If left untreated, the infection can persist for a long time.
- Abscess: An abscessed pilonidal cyst is a pus-filled pocket that forms as a result of infection. It can cause severe pain and may require prompt medical attention.
- Skin cancer: In extremely rare cases, pilonidal cysts can lead to a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. This risk is higher for individuals with a history of recurrent infections or persistent cysts.
- Rupture: A ruptured pilonidal cyst can release the contents, including hair and pus, leading to a boil-like infection. This requires prompt treatment to prevent further complications. It is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect a pilonidal cyst or experience any associated symptoms. Proper treatment can help prevent these potential complications.
Prevention
pilonidal cysts can be prevented by following certain measures. To help prevent pilonidal cysts, try to:
- Wash regularly. Keep the affected area clean and dry to prevent bacteria from growing and causing infection.
- Achieve or maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put extra pressure on the pelvic area, increasing the risk of pilonidal cysts.
- Avoid prolonged sitting. Try to take breaks and move around regularly, especially if you have a job or lifestyle that involves prolonged sitting.
- Shave or use hair removal products. If you've had pilonidal cysts in the past, regularly shaving or using hair removal products in the affected area can help reduce the risk of new cysts forming. By following these prevention measures, you can minimize your risk of developing pilonidal cysts. If you experience any symptoms of a pilonidal cyst or have concerns about your risk factors, consult your healthcare provider for advice and guidance.
Home Remedies
There are a few home remedies that can help manage pilonidal cysts, but it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Some suggestions include:
- Keeping the area clean: Wash the affected area gently with soap and water daily. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
- Applying warm compression: Applying a warm compress to the cyst may help reduce inflammation and promote drainage. Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and apply it to the cyst for 10-15 minutes, several times a day.
- Over-the-counter ointments: For some people, applying an over-the-counter ointment such as petrolatum or aquaphor to the cyst can help keep the area moisturized and promote healing. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and consult your healthcare provider before using any new products on the cyst.
- Epsom salt soaks: Soaking the affected area in a warm Epsom salt bath may help reduce inflammation and pain. Add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt to a warm tub of water and soak for 10-15 minutes. Remember, these home remedies are not substitutions for professional medical care. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of pilonidal cysts.
Treatment
There are various treatments for pilonidal cysts, depending on the severity and recurrence of the condition. Some treatments include:
- Incision and drainage: A healthcare provider can make a small incision in the cyst to drain the fluid and remove the hair. This may be done under local anesthesia.
- Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to the affected area several times a day can help reduce inflammation and promote drainage.
- Antibiotics: If the cyst is infected, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection.
- Surgical excision: In more severe cases or if the cyst keeps coming back, surgical removal of the cyst may be necessary. This is usually done under local anesthesia and involves removing the entire cyst along with the underlying hair follicle.
- Lifestyle changes: To prevent recurrence, it's important to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, avoid prolonged sitting, and keep the affected area clean and shaved. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.