Pilonidal disease

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Pilonidal disease

Pilonidal disease (pronunciation: /ˌpaɪloʊˈnaɪdəl/), also known as pilonidal cyst or sacrococcygeal fistula, is a chronic skin infection in the crease of the buttocks near the coccyx (tailbone). The term "pilonidal" comes from the Latin words for hair (pilus) and nest (nidus).

Etymology

The term "pilonidal" was first used in 1880 by R.M. Hodges, who described the condition. It is derived from the Latin words pilus (meaning hair) and nidus (meaning nest), referring to the fact that the condition often involves a hair-filled sinus or cyst in the skin.

Symptoms

Symptoms of pilonidal disease may include pain, redness, and swelling in the area of the tailbone, and sometimes a visible pit or sinus. In some cases, an abscess may form, which can cause further symptoms such as fever and a feeling of unwellness.

Causes

Pilonidal disease is thought to be caused by loose hairs that penetrate the skin. The body considers this hair as a foreign substance, and creates a cyst around it. Other factors that can contribute to the development of pilonidal disease include prolonged sitting, obesity, and local trauma or irritation.

Treatment

Treatment for pilonidal disease usually involves a procedure to drain the cyst, and in some cases, a surgery to remove the cyst and sinus tracts. Antibiotics may also be prescribed if there is an infection.

Related terms

External links

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