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Pilonidal cyst

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This is an infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue at the top of the intergluteal fold, above the coccyx bone.

It is caused by an infection of a pore with hair that grows inside it.

The most common symptoms are acute pain, inflammation, secretion of pus and bleeding.

Diagnosis is reached through the clinical history and a physical assessment.

The initial treatment is drainage and antibiotics. If it comes back, then surgery is required.

Bibliographic references
  1. Daniel J Sullivan, MD, MPH. Intergluteal pilonidal disease: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis. UpToDate, Marzo, 2015.
  2. Khanna A. Pilonidal disease. Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2011; 24:46.
  3. Jones DJ. ABC of colorectal diseases. Pilonidal sinus. BMJ 1992; 305:410.
  4. da Silva JH. Pilonidal cyst: cause and treatment. Dis Colon Rectum 2000; 43:1146.
  5. Kitchen P. Pilonidal sinus - management in the primary care setting. Aust Fam Physician 2010; 39:372.
Author
Dr. Patricia Sánchez
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

  • Collection of pus in the upper fold between the buttocks

  • Pus in the anus

  • Pain around the anus

  • Pain in anus

  • Red and swollen anus

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever that doesn't subside with antipyretics (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
Symptom persistence for more than two weeks after the initial treatment

Self-care

Place a warm, damp cloth over the area to help the cyst drain.
Avoid scratching, squeezing, "bursting" the cyst.
Maintain the hygiene of both hands and nails.
Consume over-the-counter analgesics and antipyretics in case of muscle pain or fever (Tº > 38ºC).
Check with your general practitioner about the prescription for antibiotics.
Check your symptoms and get a pre-diagnosis
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