Abscess

goodtoknow says:An abscess is a collection of pus, usually the result of a bacterial infection. There are two different types. Skin abscesses and internal abscesses. Skin abscesses, such as boils, are not usually serious and can happen to anyone, although diabetics are particularly prone. They cause swelling, redness and pain and are treated with antibiotics or an operation to drain away the pus. Abscesses inside the body are diagnosed via a scan and can be a sign of an underlying illness. Treatment depends on their size and location.

For a full medical explanation of the causes, symptoms and treatments of an abscess from patient.co.uk, read on.

An abscess can develop in various parts of the body. An operation may be needed to drain the pus. You may also need to take antibiotics.

What is an abscess and what causes it?

An abscess is a collection of pus. Pus is a thick fluid that usually contains white blood cells, dead tissue and bacteria (germs). The usual cause of an abscess is an infection with bacteria. Certain bacteria are more likely to be 'pus forming' as they make toxins (chemicals) that can damage the body's tissues. These include: Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The infection causes the immune system to activate white blood cells and chemicals to fight the bacteria. In this 'battle' some tissue dies. A cavity forms and fills with pus. The cavity becomes bigger if the infection continues.