Pilonidal Cyst

A pilonidal cyst is a small, unusual pocket of skin that often contains hair and dead skin cells. It's typically located near the tailbone, at the top of the buttocks.

This pocket, called a pilonidal cyst, forms when a hair gets trapped beneath the skin. Over time, the hair can become embedded and cause irritation. Sometimes, the trapped hair and other debris get infected. This infection can be quite painful.

If a pilonidal cyst becomes infected, it may need to be drained. This involves making a small cut to remove the infected material. In some cases, more extensive surgery might be necessary to prevent the cyst from returning.

Pilonidal cysts are most frequently found in young adult men. Unfortunately, these cysts sometimes come back even after treatment. People who spend a lot of time sitting down might be more likely to develop them. This is likely because prolonged sitting can put pressure on the area, potentially creating conditions that lead to the hair becoming trapped.

A pilonidal cyst is a small sac-like pocket that can form in the skin near the crease of your buttocks. Sometimes, these cysts don't cause any problems. However, if a pilonidal cyst becomes infected, you might experience discomfort and other symptoms.

Signs of an infected pilonidal cyst often include:

• A small, possibly painful, pit or bump: This is often found near the top of the crease where your buttocks meet.
• Pain: The area around the cyst will likely be sore and tender to the touch.
• Redness and swelling: The skin surrounding the cyst will appear red and puffy.
• Drainage: The cyst might open up and release pus or blood. This drainage can sometimes have an unpleasant odor.

If you have any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor or other healthcare professional. They can properly diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the infection from getting worse.

If you have any signs of a pilonidal cyst, it's important to talk to your doctor.

Pilonidal cysts are often caused by hairs that get stuck under the skin. This happens when friction and pressure, like from tight clothing, rubbing against the skin, cycling, or prolonged sitting, force hairs into the skin. The body's natural response is to create a small, fluid-filled sac (a cyst) around the hair to try and remove it. Most commonly, these cysts develop near the tailbone. People who work with animals, like grooming them, or who cut hair often, can also get them between their fingers due to the same kind of friction and pressure.

Pilonidal cysts are more likely to develop in certain people. Here are some factors that might increase your risk:

• Age and Gender: Young adult white males are at higher risk. This is likely due to a combination of factors, including the typical body hair growth patterns in this group and the types of activities that may be more common. Other genders and ages can also develop them, but this group is statistically more prone to them.

• Weight: Being overweight can increase your risk. Extra weight puts more pressure on the skin in the area where these cysts can form.

• Activity Level: A lack of physical activity may play a role. Staying active helps keep your body working properly and blood flowing well. Less movement can lead to more friction and irritation in the affected area.

• Prolonged Sitting: Spending a lot of time sitting can also increase the risk. Sitting for extended periods can cause the skin to rub against itself and become irritated. This friction can potentially lead to the formation of a cyst.

• Body Hair: Having thick, stiff hair in the affected area is a contributing factor. This hair can increase friction and irritation in the skin, making the area more susceptible to infection. This is also related to the typical body hair growth pattern in some groups of people.

In short, these factors can increase the chances of developing a pilonidal cyst. If you have concerns, it's always best to talk to a doctor.

Some people develop pilonidal cysts that repeatedly get infected. This ongoing infection can increase their risk of a certain type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. If left untreated, these recurring infections could potentially lead to a higher chance of developing this cancer.

Pilonidal cysts can be prevented by taking some simple steps.

First, keep good hygiene. Regular washing helps remove dirt and sweat, which can contribute to the development of these cysts.

Second, maintaining a healthy weight can make a difference. Being overweight or obese puts extra pressure on the skin, potentially increasing the risk of a pilonidal cyst forming. Eating healthy and getting regular exercise are key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Third, try to avoid sitting for long periods. Prolonged sitting can also put pressure on the skin in the affected area, making it more likely for a cyst to develop. If you have a job that requires sitting for extended periods, try getting up and moving around every so often.

If you've had a pilonidal cyst before, you might consider regularly shaving the area or using hair removal methods. This can help to reduce the chance of a new cyst forming by removing hair that could potentially become trapped and inflamed. It's crucial to do this carefully and hygienically to avoid further irritation. Always use a sharp razor and clean the area thoroughly before and after hair removal. Consult a dermatologist or doctor if you have concerns about the best hair removal method for your skin type.

Your doctor can often figure out if you have a pilonidal cyst by talking to you about your symptoms, past health, and daily routines. They might also examine the area of skin that's affected.