Colorectal Surgery in Lagos
Pilonidal Sinus
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a colorectal surgery specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Pilonidal Sinus
- A painful, swollen lump at the top of the buttock crease
- Pus or blood leaking from small openings in the crease
- A bad smell from the discharge
- Pain when sitting
- Fever, when an abscess forms
A pilonidal sinus is a small tunnel in the skin at the top of the buttock crease. Loose hairs are pushed into the skin and the body reacts, forming a tunnel that fills with hair and debris and gets infected. It is most common in young men, people with a lot of body hair and people who sit for long hours, such as drivers. It often starts as a painful swelling, an abscess, that bursts or is drained, and then keeps coming back.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A painful, swollen lump at the top of the buttock crease
- Pus or blood leaking from small openings in the crease
- A bad smell from the discharge
- Pain when sitting
- Fever, when an abscess forms
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you have a painful lump or a leaking opening in the buttock crease. Get seen the same day if it is hot, very painful and swollen, or you have a fever, because an abscess may need draining.
Treatment options
- Draining an abscess to relieve pain
- Antibiotics for spreading infection
- Surgery to remove the sinus, closing the wound or leaving it to heal open
- Keeping the area clean and free of hair afterwards
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Is a pilonidal sinus the same as piles?
No. It is in the buttock crease, a few centimetres above the anus, not at the anus itself.
Will it go away by itself?
An abscess may settle, but the tunnel usually stays and the infection comes back. Surgery is the lasting treatment.
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