ABOUT THE DISEASE

A pilonidal sinus is a small hole or "tunnel" in the skin. It can occur anywhere along the crease between the buttocks, which runs from the bone at the bottom of the spine (sacrum) to the anus, however usually develops in the cleft of the buttocks where the buttocks separate.

More than one hole may develop, and often these are linked by tunnels under the skin.

Pilonidal means a nest of hairs. It is more prevalent in men than women and does not usually cause any noticeable symptoms unless it becomes infected.

SYMPTOMS

Usually looks like a small pit or dimple on the skin, however once it gets infected it leads to:

• • Pain
• • Redness and swelling
• • Pus formation

CAUSES

Some probable reasons are:
- Ingrown hairs i.e. loose hairs that re-enter the skin though pressure from skin rubbing
- A ruptured hair follicle (the structure from which a hair grows).

The reasons for which could be:
Tight clothing, or long periods of sitting or obesity.

DIAGNOSIS

- Physical examination

TREATMENT METHODS

The treatment plan depends upon the fact whether the area has already got infected and the frequency of infection:

If not infected, in most cases it does not require any treatment.

If infected and abscess has developed, incision and drainage of pus may be done.

In case of frequent infection, excision of pilonidal sinus is advised. The wound may be left open to heal by secondary intention or it may be stitched and closed.

You may also like to learn about:

Anal fissure
Fistula in ano
Piles
Anal itching
Obesity
Coccydynia