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Pilonidal cystDefinitionA pilonidal cyst is a small pit, or dimpled area that can occur anywhere along the crease between the buttocks (sacral area). Alternative NamesSacral dimple; Pilonidal dimple; Pilonidal sinus ConsiderationsMost pilonidal cysts are pits or small depressions that are present from birth. They may range from a small dimple to a deep tract with hair in or around it.There may be more than one pit present. Very rarely, the pilonidal cyst may reach the spinal cord. A pilonidal cyst may become infected, forming what is called a pilonidal abscess. This may require surgical drainage. If repeated infection occurs, surgery may be done to remove it. CausesThe cause of pilonidal cysts is not certain. These cysts may be congenital (present from birth). In some cases, they might be caused by hair growing into the skin. This may occur with excess body hair, tight clothing, or sitting for long periods of time. Home CareIt may be helpful to keep the area clean and dry and remove hair regularly to help prevent infection. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall your health care provider if you notice swelling, redness, drainage, or tenderness around the pilonidal cyst. What to Expect at Your Office VisitYou will be asked for your medical history and given a physical examination. Sometimes you may be asked for the following information:
Most pilonidal cysts will not cause any symptoms and can be left alone. Rarely, tests may be done to determine if the pilonidal cyst extends to the spinal cord. ReferencesKlein MD, Thomas RP. Surgical conditions of the anus, rectum, and colon. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 341. Nelson H, Cima RR. Anus. In: Townsend CM Jr, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 51.
Review Date:
11/16/2009 Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Debra G. Wechter, MD, FACS, General Surgery practice specializing in breast cancer, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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