An abscess is a collection of pus in any part of the body that, in most cases, causes swelling and inflammation around it.

 

Causes:

Abscesses occur when an area of tissue becomes infected. The body's immune system tries to fight it by sending white blood cells to the area of the infection and damaged tissue. During this process, pus forms. Pus is the buildup of fluid, living and dead white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other foreign substances.

Abscesses in the skin are easy to see. They are red, raised, and painful. Abscesses in other areas of the body may not be seen, but they may cause organ damage.

 

Treatment:

- Antibiotics per mouth or intravenous

- Drainage of puss with a needle or with incision

- Excision of whole abscess

- Pain control

 

During drainage of an abscess we will collect a small amount of puss from the abscess, and sent it to the lab to test exactly what type of bacteria caused the infection and what type of antibiotic will be best to treat it with.