Abscess

Abcess: causes, symptoms and treatment

An abscess (from the Latin abscessus - discharge) is a limited purulent inflammation that can occur in any part of the body. The development of an abscess is associated with the entry into the body of pyogenic microbes, such as staphylococci, streptococci and others, through damaged skin or mucous membranes, as well as with the spread of microbes through the blood and lymphatic vessels from the focus of purulent inflammation in the body into neighboring tissues or distant organs, such like the brain, liver, lungs, etc.

Microbes that enter the tissue cause purulent inflammation in them, which leads to the melting of the tissue and the formation of a purulent cavity. Thanks to the body’s protective reaction, a thin membrane is formed around the purulent cavity, separating the abscess from healthy tissue. However, with an acute abscess, the amount of pus in its cavity quickly increases and, under the influence of its pressure and melting effect on the surrounding membrane, the abscess can break out onto the surface of the skin or into the cavity of the organ, which can contribute to recovery. However, this outcome of the disease does not happen in all cases. The abscess can break into the surrounding tissues and lead to the spread of purulent inflammation, the occurrence of phlegmon and even sepsis (blood poisoning).

Signs of an abscess include painful swelling, redness and warmth at the site of the lesion, as well as possible fever, general weakness and poor health. If you notice such symptoms, be sure to consult a doctor.

A breakthrough of an abscess into a closed cavity (for example, into the chest or abdominal cavity) can cause the development of severe, life-threatening complications - peritonitis and purulent pleurisy. Therefore, in case of an abscess, no matter where it is located (on the skin or in an organ), immediate surgical intervention is necessary - opening the abscess and emptying its cavity.

Personal hygiene rules should be strictly observed to prevent the development of an abscess. If the skin and mucous membranes are damaged (cuts, injections, splinters, abrasions, etc.), it is necessary to thoroughly treat the wound with disinfectant solutions such as iodine and brilliant green.

Under no circumstances should you independently apply heat or cold procedures (heating pads, ice, compresses), rub or massage the swelling, as this can lead to dangerous complications. Treatment of an abscess should only be carried out under the supervision of a physician.

To diagnose an abscess, your doctor may order an x-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography scan. Treatment consists of opening the abscess and emptying its cavity. After this, antibiotics are usually prescribed to prevent the infection from reoccurring. In some cases, surgery may be required.

Overall, an abscess is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. To prevent the development of an abscess, it is necessary to observe the rules of personal hygiene, and also consult a doctor at the first signs of the disease. Only timely diagnosis and treatment will help avoid serious complications.