There are both surgical and non-surgical treatment options for a pilonidal cyst, and the choice varies depending on each person’s specific characteristics.
What is a pilonidal cyst
A pilonidal cyst is an abnormal pocket that forms beneath the skin at the top of the intergluteal cleft, just above the buttocks.
This cyst often contains hair, skin, and other debris and develops when hair becomes embedded in the skin, leading to the formation of a nodule or cyst around it.
The exact cause is not always clear, but it is believed to result from the accumulation of hair in the area, which, when rubbed or pressed, can penetrate the skin and cause an inflammatory reaction.
Pilonidal cysts are more common in young men, especially those with abundant body hair, excess weight, or a sedentary lifestyle.
Pilonidal cyst symptoms
Symptoms vary in intensity depending on whether the cyst is active or inactive.
In the early stages, a person may not notice the cyst, as it may appear as a small, painless lump. But when the cyst becomes infected and turns into a pilonidal abscess, symptoms can become painful:
- Tailbone pain: pain may appear in the coccyx area when sitting, bending, or moving.
- Swelling: the skin over the cyst becomes red and swollen due to infection.
- Warmth: the affected area may feel warm because of inflammation and increased blood flow.
- Discharge: if the cyst ruptures, it may release a foul-smelling yellowish fluid or blood.
- General discomfort: in severe cases, the infection may cause fever and fatigue.
Without adequate treatment, these symptoms may worsen. Once infected, the cyst can progress into an abscess which, besides being painful, increases the risk of developing new cysts in the area.
How to heal a pilonidal cyst without surgery
Depending on the severity and condition of the cyst, different types of treatment may be used. In many cases, a pilonidal cyst requires surgical intervention, such as cyst drainage, where the contents of the cyst are drained; marsupialization, which also involves making an incision in the cyst, but in this case the opening is left open to allow continued drainage. Excision surgery is used in patients where the cyst is recurrent or has complications.
There are also non-surgical approaches that may be considered for treating a pilonidal cyst, particularly when the cyst is not infected and is in the early stages.
Warm compresses applied to the affected area may help reduce pain and inflammation; heat can also promote cyst drainage.
Sitz baths with warm water help keep the area clean and relieve discomfort.
Good personal hygiene is essential; keeping the area clean and dry helps prevent infections. In some cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotic ointments.
It is important to clarify that these treatments may help control a pilonidal cyst in its early stages or prevent complications; however, consulting a healthcare professional is always necessary to evaluate each case and avoid greater health risks. In many cases, surgical treatment may still be required. If pain or signs of infection are present, specialized medical attention should be sought.
At ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine area, we can provide specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes:
Kids Health, Cigna, MAPFRE
