Pilonidal cyst

Overview

Infected cysts are red, swollen, and drain pus.

They often come back without surgery.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Painful lump near the tailbone
• Painful lump at the top of the buttock crease

Less common

• Pus
• Swelling

When to get medical care

Causes

Hair in the skin.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Young men
• Sitting jobs
• Hairy skin

Possible complications

• Boil or skin abscess

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Treatment

Care for it.

Self-care

• Warm compresses
• Keep the area clean and dry
• Remove hair from the area

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Drainage for abscesses; surgery for repeat cysts.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Hair removal
• Take breaks from sitting

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a general surgeon.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Pilonidal cyst