acute or chronic infection in the natal cleft, which may lead to formation of an abscess
Demographics
Aetiology
- inflammation of hair follicle in intergluteal cleft → obstructed follicle → formation of epithelialised tract and pit
Clinical Features
- discharging (serous) and intermittently painful sinus in sacrococcygeal region
- abscess presents with swelling and erythema, as well as fluctuant, tender mass and systemic infection features
Investigations
- swab for MCS (guide Abx if cellulitis present)
Management
- Patients with asymptomatic pilonidal sinus disease do not require treatment.
- pilonidal abscess → urgent surgery
- Antibiotics may be used as an adjunct to surgery; however, they are not indicated unless cellulitis is present