Pilonidal cyst should i go to the doctor

Therefore, it should be treated. A pilonidal cyst may be congenital or acquired. If congenital, it probably began as a defect that existed when you were born. Sometime later, the defect allowed an infection to develop. If acquired, it may be the enlargement of a simple hair follicle infection or the result of a hair penetrating the skin and causing an infection.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You will be referred to a surgeon for treatment. There are no diagnostic tests required. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. The choice of treatment will depend on the extent of the condition and your general overall health. Treatment options include:. A foul smell in the area. What causes pilonidal cysts?

Pilonidal cysts can happen for many reasons: Most pilonidal cysts seem to be caused by ingrown hairs. These are hairs that grow back into the skin instead of growing out. Some cysts form around a ruptured hair follicle.

This is the structure from which a hair grows. Cysts can form if you have trauma to your tailbone. How is a pilonidal cyst diagnosed? Can a pilonidal cyst be prevented or avoided? Living with a pilonidal cyst If you have a pilonidal cyst, follow these tips to help keep it from becoming infected: Shave around the cyst area to help prevent hairs from getting into the cyst.

Clean the cyst area with a mild soap and rinse well to remove any soap residue. Avoid sitting for long periods of time. Questions for your doctor Do I have a pilonidal cyst? What treatment is best for me? Will I need surgery? How can I stop my pilonidal cyst from getting infected?

Should I avoid wearing tight clothing? Could my pilonidal cyst come back? My child has a sacral dimple. Last Updated: April 20, This article was contributed by: familydoctor. Tags: abnormal tissue , buttock cyst , cyst , hair , pilonidal cyst , sacral dimple , skin fragments. You may also need to shave around the surgical site to prevent hairs from entering the wound. You're likely to start by seeing your primary care doctor. In some cases when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred immediately to a dermatologist or a surgeon.

Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Treatment The initial treatment for an infected pilonidal cyst is usually a procedure that can be performed in your doctor's office. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter.