Pilonidal Sinus

Introduction

Pilonidal sinus is a medical condition that affects the skin around the tailbone or the cleft between the buttocks. It occurs when a small hole or tunnel forms in the skin and becomes infected, causing pain and discomfort. Pilonidal sinus can affect people of any age but is more common in men than women.

Symptoms

 The symptoms of pilonidal sinus can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

  1. Pain and swelling in the affected area
  2. Redness and inflammation around the cyst
  3. Drainage of pus or blood from the cyst
  4. Foul-smelling discharge
  5. Fever and fatigue in severe cases

Causes

 The exact cause of pilonidal sinus is not known, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

  1. Hair growth: The hair in the cleft between the buttocks can become trapped and cause an infection.
  2. Friction: Pilonidal sinus can be caused by repeated friction or pressure on the skin in the affected area.
  3. Congenital: Pilonidal sinus can also be present at birth, and the condition can worsen with age.
  4. Sedentary lifestyle: Sitting for prolonged periods can increase the risk of developing pilonidal sinus.
 

Treatment

 The treatment for pilonidal sinus varies depending on the severity of the condition. Some common treatments include:

  1. Antibiotics: If the infection is mild, antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the inflammation and pain.
  2. Surgery: Surgery may be required in severe or recurrent cases of pilonidal sinus. The surgical procedure involves removing the cyst and any infected tissue. In some cases, the wound may be left open to heal naturally, while in other cases, the wound may be closed with stitches.