Pilonidal sinus
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A pilonidal sinus is an infected tract under the skin between the buttocks.
A sinus tract is a small abnormal channel (like a small tunnel) in the body. A tract typically goes from the source of infection, often deep within the body, to the skin's surface.
Pilonidal means "nest of hairs." and pilonidal sinus usually occurs in people who have lots of body hair. Some doctors believe that these tunnels are caused by ingrown hairs, yet this has not been proven yet.
Anyone can develop a pilonidal sinus. However, it mainly affects people between the age of 16 and 30. In some cases, it can be treated with antibiotics and ointment. Yet, in more severe cases, surgery is required. Surgery involves either drainage of the sinus, or complete excision.
Drainage is the preferred method of treatment, however, sinus can return even if it has been drained. To fully erase all chances of it returning, excision is required.
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
- Pilonidal.org – Pilonidal Support Alliance
- Pilonidal sinus – NHS Direct Online Health Encyclopaedia
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