What are the common causes of abscesses. How can you identify abscess symptoms. What are the most effective treatments for abscesses. When should you seek medical care for an abscess. How are abscesses diagnosed and treated by medical professionals.

Understanding Abscesses: A Comprehensive Overview

An abscess is a localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue. These painful swellings can occur anywhere on or inside the body, but are most commonly found on the skin. Abscesses form when the body’s immune system attempts to fight off an infection, resulting in a buildup of dead cells, bacteria, and other debris.

Skin abscesses typically appear as tender, red masses that are warm to the touch. They can vary in size and may become increasingly painful as they grow. In some cases, abscesses may “point” or come to a head, allowing the pus inside to be visible through the skin.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Abscess Formation

Abscesses can develop due to various factors, with bacterial infections being the primary cause. Here are some common reasons for abscess formation:

• Broken skin barrier from minor trauma or small tears
• Inflammation of hair follicles (folliculitis)
• Obstruction in sweat or oil glands
• Pre-existing cysts
• Poor hygiene
• Exposure to dirty environments

Certain individuals are at higher risk for developing severe abscesses due to weakened immune systems. These risk factors include:

• Chronic steroid therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• AIDS
• Sickle cell disease
• Peripheral vascular disorders
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Severe burns or trauma
• Alcoholism or IV drug abuse
• Obesity

Recognizing Abscess Symptoms: Key Indicators to Watch For

Identifying an abscess early can lead to prompt treatment and prevent complications. The most common symptoms of an abscess include:

• A painful, compressible mass
• Redness and warmth around the affected area
• Tenderness to touch
• Swelling
• Possible fever as the infection progresses
• Fatigue or general feeling of illness

Is it possible for an abscess to rupture on its own? In some cases, abscesses may spontaneously open and drain. However, this doesn’t always occur, and medical intervention is often necessary for proper treatment and healing.

Home Care for Minor Abscesses: When and How to Treat

For small abscesses (less than 1 cm or half an inch across), home care may be appropriate. Here are some self-care tips:

1. Apply warm compresses to the area for about 30 minutes, four times daily
2. Keep the area clean and dry
3. Avoid squeezing or pressing on the abscess
4. Do not attempt to drain the abscess with sharp objects

Can over-the-counter pain relievers help manage abscess discomfort? Yes, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with abscesses. However, these medications should not replace proper medical care when needed.

When to Seek Medical Care: Important Warning Signs

While minor abscesses may resolve with home care, certain situations require professional medical attention. Seek medical care if:

• The abscess is larger than 1 cm or half an inch across
• The abscess continues to enlarge or becomes more painful
• The abscess is located near the rectal or groin area
• You develop a fever
• You notice red streaks spreading from the abscess
• You have any of the previously mentioned risk factors

Emergency medical care is necessary if you experience:

• Fever of 102°F or higher, especially with chronic diseases or immunosuppression
• Red streaks leading away from the abscess
• Swollen lymph nodes between the abscess and chest area
• Any facial abscess larger than 1 cm

Medical Examination and Diagnosis of Abscesses

When you visit a healthcare provider for an abscess, they will conduct a thorough examination and may ask about:

• The duration of the abscess
• Any recent injuries to the area
• Current medications and allergies
• Presence of fever or other symptoms

The doctor will examine the abscess and surrounding areas. Depending on the location, they may perform additional examinations, such as a rectal exam for abscesses near the anus or check for swollen lymph nodes if the abscess is on a limb.

Are imaging tests necessary for diagnosing abscesses? In most cases, abscesses can be diagnosed through physical examination alone. However, for deep-tissue abscesses or those in internal organs, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI may be required for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Professional Treatment Options for Abscesses

The primary treatment for most abscesses is incision and drainage (I&D). This procedure involves:

1. Cleaning the area
2. Administering local anesthesia
3. Making an incision to open the abscess
4. Draining the pus and debris
5. Irrigating the cavity
6. Packing the wound (in some cases)

After the procedure, your doctor will provide instructions for wound care and follow-up. In some cases, they may prescribe antibiotics, especially if:

• The infection has spread to surrounding tissues
• You have a weakened immune system
• The abscess is in a critical area (e.g., face, hands)

Is it true that antibiotics alone cannot cure most abscesses? Yes, in most cases, antibiotics alone are not sufficient to treat abscesses. The infected material needs to be drained for effective healing. Antibiotics are typically used as an adjunct to drainage or in specific situations where the infection has spread beyond the abscess.

Preventing Abscesses: Practical Steps for Reducing Risk

While it’s not always possible to prevent abscesses, you can take steps to reduce your risk:

• Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing
• Keep cuts, scrapes, and other wounds clean and covered
• Avoid sharing personal items like razors or towels
• Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes
• Boost your immune system through a healthy diet and regular exercise
• Avoid picking or squeezing pimples or other skin irritations

Can maintaining a healthy lifestyle help prevent abscesses? Absolutely. A strong immune system is crucial in fighting off infections that can lead to abscesses. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep can all contribute to a healthier immune system and reduce your risk of developing abscesses.

Long-Term Outlook and Potential Complications

With proper treatment, most abscesses heal without complications. However, potential risks include:

• Spread of infection to deeper tissues or bloodstream
• Scarring
• Recurrence of the abscess
• Development of a fistula (an abnormal connection between organs or vessels)

Prompt treatment and following medical advice can significantly reduce these risks. If you experience recurrent abscesses, your healthcare provider may recommend further evaluation to identify any underlying causes or risk factors.

Do abscesses always leave scars after treatment? While some scarring is possible, especially with larger abscesses or those requiring surgical drainage, proper wound care can minimize scarring. Following your doctor’s instructions for wound care and avoiding picking at the healing site can help reduce the likelihood of noticeable scars.

Special Considerations for Specific Types of Abscesses

While the general principles of abscess treatment apply broadly, certain types of abscesses may require specialized care:

• Dental abscesses: These often require treatment by a dentist or oral surgeon and may involve root canal therapy or tooth extraction.
• Bartholin gland abscesses: These occur in the vulvar area and may require placement of a small drainage catheter called a Word catheter.
• Pilonidal abscesses: These form near the tailbone and may require more extensive surgical treatment to prevent recurrence.
• Internal abscesses: Abscesses in organs like the liver or brain require specialized medical or surgical interventions.

How are internal abscesses treated differently from skin abscesses? Internal abscesses often require more complex treatments. They may be drained using image-guided techniques (such as ultrasound or CT-guided drainage) or through surgical procedures. Treatment usually involves a combination of drainage and antibiotics, and may require a longer recovery period compared to skin abscesses.

The Role of Antibiotic Resistance in Abscess Treatment

Antibiotic resistance is an increasing concern in the treatment of infections, including abscesses. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a particular concern, as it can cause difficult-to-treat abscesses. To address this issue:

• Doctors may culture the abscess material to identify the specific bacteria and its antibiotic sensitivities
• Treatment may involve antibiotics that are effective against resistant strains
• Proper wound care and complete antibiotic courses (when prescribed) are crucial to prevent the development of resistance

Can probiotics help prevent antibiotic-associated complications when treating abscesses? While more research is needed, some studies suggest that probiotic supplementation during antibiotic treatment may help reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and other gastrointestinal side effects. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Psychological Impact of Recurrent or Chronic Abscesses

Dealing with recurrent or chronic abscesses can have a significant psychological impact on individuals. Some challenges may include:

• Anxiety about future abscess formation
• Depression related to chronic pain or recurrent infections
• Body image concerns, especially if abscesses leave visible scars
• Social isolation due to embarrassment or discomfort

If you’re struggling with the emotional aspects of dealing with abscesses, consider seeking support through:

• Counseling or therapy
• Support groups for individuals with chronic skin conditions
• Open communication with your healthcare provider about your concerns

How can individuals cope with the stress of recurrent abscesses? Developing a strong support system, practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga, and focusing on overall health and wellness can help manage the stress associated with recurrent abscesses. It’s also important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive management plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of your condition.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Abscesses

Ongoing research into abscess prevention and treatment offers hope for improved management in the future. Some areas of investigation include:

• Novel antimicrobial agents to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria
• Immunomodulatory therapies to enhance the body’s natural defense against infections
• Advanced wound healing technologies to promote faster recovery and reduce scarring
• Personalized medicine approaches to tailor treatments based on individual risk factors and bacterial profiles

What role might nanotechnology play in future abscess treatments? Nanotechnology holds promise for developing targeted drug delivery systems that could enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics and reduce side effects. Nanoparticles could potentially be used to penetrate biofilms (communities of bacteria that are often resistant to traditional antibiotics) and deliver antimicrobial agents more effectively to the site of infection.

Lifestyle Modifications for Long-Term Abscess Prevention

For individuals prone to recurrent abscesses, certain lifestyle modifications may help reduce the frequency of occurrences:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight to reduce skin folds that can harbor bacteria
• Quitting smoking, as it can impair wound healing and immune function
• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes effectively to support overall immune health
• Using antibacterial soaps or body washes as recommended by your healthcare provider
• Wearing breathable, loose-fitting clothing to reduce skin irritation and moisture buildup

Can dietary changes help prevent recurrent abscesses? While there’s no specific diet proven to prevent abscesses, a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall immune function. Some studies suggest that probiotic-rich foods may help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria on the skin and in the gut, potentially reducing the risk of infections. However, more research is needed to establish a direct link between specific dietary factors and abscess prevention.

In conclusion, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for abscesses is crucial for effective management and prevention. By recognizing the signs early, seeking appropriate medical care, and following through with treatment plans, most abscesses can be successfully treated. Ongoing research and advancements in medical technology continue to improve our ability to prevent and treat these common but potentially serious infections.

Causes, Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Abscess Overview
• Abscess Causes
• Abscess Symptoms
• Abscess Treatment: Self-Care at Home
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Medical Treatment
• Next Steps: Follow-up
• Prevention
• Outlook
• Synonyms and Keywords
• More

A skin abscess is a tender mass generally surrounded by a colored area from pink to deep red. Abscesses are often easy to feel by touching. The vast majority of them are caused by infections. Inside, they are full of pus, bacteria and debris.

Painful and warm to touch, abscesses can show up any place on your body. The most common sites on the skin in your armpits (axillae), areas around your anus and vagina (Bartholin gland abscess), the base of your spine (pilonidal abscess), around a tooth (dental abscess), and in your groin. Inflammation around a hair follicle can also lead to the formation of an abscess, which is called a boil (furuncle).

Unlike other infections, antibiotics alone will not usually cure an abscess. In general an abscess must open and drain in order for it to improve. Sometimes draining occurs on its own, but generally it must be opened with the help of a warm compress or by a doctor in a procedure called incision and drainage (I&D).

When our normal skin barrier is broken, even from minor trauma, or small tears, or inflammation, bacteria can enter the skin. An abscess can form as your body’s defenses try to kill these germs with your inflammatory response (white blood cells = pus). Obstruction in a sweat or oil (sebaceous) gland, or a hair follicle or a pre-existing cyst can also trigger an abscess. 

The middle of the abscess liquefies and contains dead cells, bacteria, and other debris. This area begins to grow, creating tension under the skin and further inflammation of the surrounding tissues. Pressure and inflammation cause the pain.

People with weakened immune systems get certain abscesses more often. Those with any of the following are all at risk for having more severe abscesses. This is because the body has a decreased ability to ward off infections.

• Chronic steroid therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• AIDS
• Sickle cell disease
• Peripheral vascular disorders
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Severe burns
• Severe trauma
• Alcoholism or IV drug abuse
• Obesity

Other risk factors for abscess include exposure to dirty environments, exposure to persons with certain types of skin infections, poor hygiene, and poor circulation.

Most often, an abscess becomes a painful, compressible mass that is red, warm to touch, and tender.

• As some abscesses progress, they may “point” and come to a head so you can see the material inside and then spontaneously open (rupture).
• Most will continue to get worse without care. The infection can spread to the tissues under the skin and even into the bloodstream.
• If the infection spreads into deeper tissue, you may develop a fever and begin to feel ill.

• If the abscess is small (less than 1 cm or less than a half-inch across), applying warm compresses to the area for about 30 minutes 4 times daily may help.
• Do not attempt to drain the abscess by squeezing or pressing on it. This can push the infected material into the deeper tissues.
• Do not stick a needle or other sharp instrument into the abscess center, because you may injure an underlying blood vessel or cause the infection to spread.

Call your doctor if any of the following occur with an abscess:

• You have a sore larger than 1 cm or a half-inch across.
• The sore continues to enlarge or becomes more painful.
• The sore is on or near your rectal or groin area.
• You develop a fever.
• You notice red streaks, which can mean the infection is spreading.
• You have any of the medical conditions listed above.

Go to a hospital’s Emergency Department if any of these conditions occur with an abscess:

• Fever of 102°F or higher, especially if you have a chronic disease or are on steroids, chemotherapy, or dialysis
• A red streak leading away from the sore or with tender lymph nodes (lumps) in an area anywhere between the abscess and your chest area (for example, an abscess on your leg can cause swollen lymph nodes in your groin area)
• Any facial abscess larger than 1 cm or a half-inch across

The doctor will take a medical history and may ask you:

• How long the abscess has been present
• If you recall any injury to that area
• What medicines you may be taking
• If you have any allergies
• If you have had a fever at home

The doctor will examine the abscess and surrounding areas. If it is near your anus, the doctor will perform a rectal exam. If an arm or leg is involved, the doctor will feel for a lymph gland either in your groin or under your arm.

The doctor may open and drain the abscess.

Follow carefully any instructions your doctor gives you.

• The doctor may have you remove the packing yourself with instructions on the best way to do this. This may include soaking or flushing.
• Be sure to keep all follow-up appointments.
• Report any fever, redness, swelling, or increased pain to your doctor immediately.

Maintain good personal hygiene by washing your skin with soap and water regularly.

• Take care to avoid nicking yourself when shaving your underarms or pubic area.
• Seek immediate medical attention for any puncture wounds, especially if:
  • You think there may be some debris in the wound.
  • The puncture wound was caused by a bite – human, insect or animal.
  • You have one of the listed medical conditions.
  • You are on steroids or chemotherapy.

Once treated, the abscess should heal.

• Many people require antibiotics, but you may not.
• The pain often improves immediately and subsides more each day.
• Wound care instructions from your doctor may include wound repacking, soaking, washing, or bandaging for about 7 to 10 days. This usually depends on the size and severity of the abscess.
• After the first 2 days, drainage from the abscess should be minimal to none. All sores should heal in 10-14 days.

abscess, abscesses, boils, carbuncles, furuncles, hidradenitis suppurativa, pilonidal abscess, pustules, whiteheads

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Causes, Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Abscess Overview
• Abscess Causes
• Abscess Symptoms
• Abscess Treatment: Self-Care at Home
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Medical Treatment
• Next Steps: Follow-up
• Prevention
• Outlook
• Synonyms and Keywords
• More

A skin abscess is a tender mass generally surrounded by a colored area from pink to deep red. Abscesses are often easy to feel by touching. The vast majority of them are caused by infections. Inside, they are full of pus, bacteria and debris.

Painful and warm to touch, abscesses can show up any place on your body. The most common sites on the skin in your armpits (axillae), areas around your anus and vagina (Bartholin gland abscess), the base of your spine (pilonidal abscess), around a tooth (dental abscess), and in your groin. Inflammation around a hair follicle can also lead to the formation of an abscess, which is called a boil (furuncle).

Unlike other infections, antibiotics alone will not usually cure an abscess. In general an abscess must open and drain in order for it to improve. Sometimes draining occurs on its own, but generally it must be opened with the help of a warm compress or by a doctor in a procedure called incision and drainage (I&D).

When our normal skin barrier is broken, even from minor trauma, or small tears, or inflammation, bacteria can enter the skin. An abscess can form as your body’s defenses try to kill these germs with your inflammatory response (white blood cells = pus). Obstruction in a sweat or oil (sebaceous) gland, or a hair follicle or a pre-existing cyst can also trigger an abscess. 

The middle of the abscess liquefies and contains dead cells, bacteria, and other debris. This area begins to grow, creating tension under the skin and further inflammation of the surrounding tissues. Pressure and inflammation cause the pain.

People with weakened immune systems get certain abscesses more often. Those with any of the following are all at risk for having more severe abscesses. This is because the body has a decreased ability to ward off infections.

• Chronic steroid therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• AIDS
• Sickle cell disease
• Peripheral vascular disorders
• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Severe burns
• Severe trauma
• Alcoholism or IV drug abuse
• Obesity

Other risk factors for abscess include exposure to dirty environments, exposure to persons with certain types of skin infections, poor hygiene, and poor circulation.

Most often, an abscess becomes a painful, compressible mass that is red, warm to touch, and tender.

• As some abscesses progress, they may “point” and come to a head so you can see the material inside and then spontaneously open (rupture).
• Most will continue to get worse without care. The infection can spread to the tissues under the skin and even into the bloodstream.
• If the infection spreads into deeper tissue, you may develop a fever and begin to feel ill.

• If the abscess is small (less than 1 cm or less than a half-inch across), applying warm compresses to the area for about 30 minutes 4 times daily may help.
• Do not attempt to drain the abscess by squeezing or pressing on it. This can push the infected material into the deeper tissues.
• Do not stick a needle or other sharp instrument into the abscess center, because you may injure an underlying blood vessel or cause the infection to spread.

Call your doctor if any of the following occur with an abscess:

• You have a sore larger than 1 cm or a half-inch across.
• The sore continues to enlarge or becomes more painful.
• The sore is on or near your rectal or groin area.
• You develop a fever.
• You notice red streaks, which can mean the infection is spreading.
• You have any of the medical conditions listed above.

Go to a hospital’s Emergency Department if any of these conditions occur with an abscess:

• Fever of 102°F or higher, especially if you have a chronic disease or are on steroids, chemotherapy, or dialysis
• A red streak leading away from the sore or with tender lymph nodes (lumps) in an area anywhere between the abscess and your chest area (for example, an abscess on your leg can cause swollen lymph nodes in your groin area)
• Any facial abscess larger than 1 cm or a half-inch across

The doctor will take a medical history and may ask you:

• How long the abscess has been present
• If you recall any injury to that area
• What medicines you may be taking
• If you have any allergies
• If you have had a fever at home

The doctor will examine the abscess and surrounding areas. If it is near your anus, the doctor will perform a rectal exam. If an arm or leg is involved, the doctor will feel for a lymph gland either in your groin or under your arm.

The doctor may open and drain the abscess.

Follow carefully any instructions your doctor gives you.

• The doctor may have you remove the packing yourself with instructions on the best way to do this. This may include soaking or flushing.
• Be sure to keep all follow-up appointments.
• Report any fever, redness, swelling, or increased pain to your doctor immediately.

Maintain good personal hygiene by washing your skin with soap and water regularly.

• Take care to avoid nicking yourself when shaving your underarms or pubic area.
• Seek immediate medical attention for any puncture wounds, especially if:
  • You think there may be some debris in the wound.
  • The puncture wound was caused by a bite – human, insect or animal.
  • You have one of the listed medical conditions.
  • You are on steroids or chemotherapy.

Once treated, the abscess should heal.

• Many people require antibiotics, but you may not.
• The pain often improves immediately and subsides more each day.
• Wound care instructions from your doctor may include wound repacking, soaking, washing, or bandaging for about 7 to 10 days. This usually depends on the size and severity of the abscess.
• After the first 2 days, drainage from the abscess should be minimal to none. All sores should heal in 10-14 days.

abscess, abscesses, boils, carbuncles, furuncles, hidradenitis suppurativa, pilonidal abscess, pustules, whiteheads

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An abscess is a collection of purulent contents in various tissues. Purulent inflammation is usually caused by a bacterial infection. In this case, in the process of tissue melting, a cavity is formed. The occurrence of an abscess is due to bacteria entering the tissues from the outside – through abrasions and injuries or from other infected tissues and organs. This disease differs from other similar diseases by the formation of a capsule that prevents the spread of inflammation.

According to the location of the pus, superficial accumulations are isolated in the subcutaneous fat area and deep inside the organs and deep tissues. Depending on the method of penetration of pathogenic microorganisms, there are exogenous accumulations (from the external environment) and endogenous (migration within the body of one person).

Symptoms and signs

Regardless of the location of the purulent accumulation, the symptoms of an abscess are the same:

• intoxication – fever, chills, weakness, malaise, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, pain in muscles and joints, headaches;
• superficial location – redness and swelling of the skin immediately above the place of accumulation, pain on palpation or during movement;
• violation of the functioning of the damaged organ or corresponding tissues.

Chronic abscess does not have symptoms of an acute inflammatory process. Deeply located clusters have only general signs of intoxication and are detected by instrumental diagnostics. The most common abscess locations are:

• inside the bones – the main symptom is pain from physical exertion or when the weather changes;
• Lung abscess is manifested by shortness of breath and weak breathing. Lung abscess is often confused with pneumonia;
• in the abdominal cavity and liver is accompanied by signs of any disease of this organ;
• in the brain causes convulsions and incoordination;
• prostate abscess causes pain when urinating;
• Throat abscess causing cough spasms and pain;
• Bartholin gland abscess and others.

Cold proceeds without signs of intoxication and appears with immunodeficiencies. The sinter eliminates the presence of an inflammatory process in the tissues. Acute abscess has more pronounced symptoms in comparison with other forms.

Causes of emergence and development

The main cause of an abscess is a bacterial infection that has entered the tissues from the outside world. Bacteria enter the body due to microtraumas that violate the integrity of the skin. Such injuries include cuts and minor abrasions/scratches/damages received in the process of shaving or cutting hair, manicures or pedicures, and others. At the same time, in case of ingress of dirt or small particles in the form of a splinter, the likelihood of the formation of a purulent accumulation increases.

The occurrence of accumulation of pus can occur for other reasons for an abscess:

• migration of infection from the primary focus of infection;
• festering hematomas and cysts;
• surgical manipulations – violation of sanitary rules in the form of non-sterile devices;
• violations in the administration of medicines and preparations, for example, violation of concentration during vaccinations.

An abscess develops further under the influence of reduced immunity or circulatory disorders in the abscess area.

Forms of the disease and routes of infection

An abscess can be an independent disease, but in the vast majority of cases it acts as a complication of some underlying disease, for example, purulent tonsillitis causes a paratonsillar abscess. Pathogenic microorganisms have a lot of ways to get inside – through damage to the skin as a result of injuries and cuts, from other organs and tissues previously infected, through non-sterile equipment during surgical procedures, and others.

Forms of the disease are classified according to the localization of purulent accumulation:

• retropharyngeal abscess;
• parapharyngeal;
• paratonsillar abscess;
• subphrenic;
• soft tissues;
• periodontal;
• appendicular and others.

Complications

In the absence of timely and adequate treatment, the complications of abscesses are very dangerous for the life and health of the patient:

• phlegmon;
• neuritis;
• osteomyelitis;
• internal bleeding of vessel walls;
• peritonitis,
• sepsis as a result of purulent abscess of the appendicular region;
• purulent meningitis and others.

Clinic contact

A purulent accumulation is fraught with dangerous consequences, therefore, if there are the slightest signs of the presence of an accumulation of pus in tissues or organs, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor. The ideal solution would be to call an ambulance.

In the center of Moscow, JSC “Medicina” (clinic of academician Roitberg) will provide you with the necessary assistance in treatment. In addition, JSC “Medicina” (Academician Roitberg’s clinic) has the ability to accommodate patients in a round-the-clock hospital and has the function of calling a doctor at home around the clock.

Diagnostics

Purulent accumulations located near the surface of the skin are easily diagnosed by external examination according to characteristic signs. Throat abscess is detected during examination by an otolaryngologist.

Diagnosis of an abscess located deep inside requires special laboratory and instrumental studies:

• biochemical blood test will show the inflammatory process in the body with an increased content of leukocytes and ESR, as well as shifts in protein fractions;
• radiography is used to detect subdiaphragmatic, intraosseous, and pulmonary accumulations;
• Ultrasonography is aimed at detecting accumulations in the abdominal cavity and liver;
• computed tomography, as an auxiliary method, detects purulent accumulations in the brain, lungs and liver, subdiaphragmatic region and inside bones and joints;
• encephalography of various forms (echo-, electro-, pneumo-) is aimed at studying the brain;
• laparoscopy and angihepatography are used as an auxiliary method for examining the liver;
• abscess puncture and culture of its contents is performed to determine the specific type of pathogen and its sensitivity to certain antibacterial drugs.

Most often, purulent accumulations are caused by streptococci, staphylococci in combination with various kinds of bacilli, but other aerobic and anaerobic bacteria are now becoming widespread.

Treatment

The key to successful treatment of an abscess lies in its timely detection. That is why it is so important to consult a doctor immediately if you have any symptoms.

Principles of treatment:

• only superficially located purulent accumulations can be treated at home under medical supervision. All other cases require hospitalization;
• opening and drainage of the area of ​​purulent accumulation is carried out by a surgeon, it is necessary to remove the abscess;
• drug therapy is based on taking the following drugs: antibacterial agents, antipyretics, painkillers, drugs to reduce intoxication, vitamin complexes, immunomodulators and others;
• balanced nutrition, sparing bed or semi-bed rest, as well as peace;
• physiotherapy exercises, physiotherapy and spa treatment are possible as rehabilitation measures during the recovery phase.

As an aid in the treatment of subcutaneous fat suppuration, special ointments are used.

Purulent accumulations in the lungs are initially treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, and after receiving the results of culture studies, the medications taken are corrected. In severe cases, bronchoalveolar lavage may be performed. In the absence of a positive effect of classical therapy, an abscess operation is forced to remove the affected part of the organ.

Treatment of purulent accumulations in the brain is carried out by surgical methods. Contraindications for the removal of accumulations, namely the location in the deep parts of the brain, forces the purulent content to be washed by puncture. Treatment of purulent accumulations at home with traditional medicine is unacceptable.

Prophylaxis

Abscess prevention is based on the following recommendations:

• timeliness of primary treatment of wounds and injuries;
• sanitation of foci of infection;
• strengthening immunity;
• careful observance of antiseptic and aseptic measures during surgical procedures that damage the skin.

How to make an appointment

In JSC “Medicine” (clinic of academician Roitberg) experienced specialists are receiving. You can sign up on the website, by phone +7 (495) 775-73-60. Our clinic is located at the address: 2nd Tverskoy-Yamskoy pereulok 10, Mayakovskaya metro station.

Abscess – diagnosis and treatment at the medical center “Andreev Hospitals”

Abscess is a limited accumulation of pus in soft tissues. This pathology always requires surgical intervention, as it is dangerous due to its complications. spread to surrounding tissues and organs.It is the inner wall of the abscess and is a pyrogenic membrane lined with granulation tissue that produces inflammatory exudate.0003

Causes of abscess

The most common causative agents of infection are staphylococci, Escherichia coli, Proteus, and so on. Infection occurs in one of two ways:

• exogenous;
• endogenous.

In the first case, the entry gates are small wounds on the skin, into which the pathogen enters and, under satisfactory conditions, begins to actively multiply. The endogenous method of infection is the infection with the blood flow from neighboring foci.

Symptoms of an abscess

When an abscess occurs, redness, swelling and pain appear on the surface of the body, accompanied by an increase in temperature in the affected area. With progression, fluctuation may be observed, indicating the presence of accumulated fluid in the cavity of the abscess. The depth of the lesion and the severity of the symptoms depend on the type of pathogen, the state of the immune system, and also on the effectiveness of the treatment started.

In addition to local symptoms, there is a change in general well-being. In this case, there may be an increase in body temperature above 40 degrees, malaise, headache and nausea.

A general blood test is indicative, in which there is an increase in ESR, the number of leukocytes with a shift in the formula to the left. With the progression of the disease, changes in the blood picture become more pronounced.

Other symptoms depend on the localization of the process. Accordingly, if a certain organ is damaged, there will be signs of a violation of its work. The outcome of the disease may be an independent opening of the abscess.

Diagnosis of an abscess

Differential diagnosis of an abscess is carried out with phlegmon, characterized by the absence of limitation. Also, hematoma, cysts and tumor-like formations with an associated infection have similar symptoms. To clarify the diagnosis, a puncture of the contents is performed, which allows not only to establish the nature of the formation, but also the pathogen, and this greatly facilitates further treatment.

Treatment of an abscess

In the presence of an abscess within the subcutaneous tissue, treatment is carried out on an outpatient basis by opening the abscess under local anesthesia.

In the event that the abscess is located on the internal organs, the disease is treated only in a hospital. In this case, after a thorough examination with the determination of the boundaries of inflammation under general anesthesia, an abscess is opened with the obligatory removal of the capsule. In the presence of chronic abscesses, such as lung damage, the capsule is removed along with the surrounding tissues. In the event that it is impossible to remove the capsule, the cavity is drained and subsequently treated with antibacterial drugs.

After the operation, antibiotic therapy is prescribed, as well as symptomatic treatment. In this case, as already mentioned, the selection of drugs should be carried out taking into account the causative agent of the pathology.

If untreated, possible
s such complications as spontaneous opening of an abscess or chronicity.

Prevention of abscess

The only prevention of pathology is personal hygiene and the use of antibacterial agents in skin care in the presence of damage. Also, a preventive measure is the timely sanitation of the source of infection.