pilonidal abscess

Pathology

• an abscess in the sacral region (gluteal cleft above the anus, near the coccyx), containing a hair which may act as a foreign body producing chronic inflammation
• it is thought to be initiated by the penetration of hair beneath the skin
• a cyst, sinus tract or abscess may occur

Differential diagnosis:

• pilonidal cyst
• pilonidal sinus
• anorectal fistula
• anorectal abscess

More general terms

• pelvic abscess
• pilonidal disease

Additional terms

• abscess/cyst drainage
• pilonidal cyst
• pilonidal sinus/fistula