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Definition
An abcess is a localized collection of pus in any part of the body, caused by an infection.Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Abscesses occur when an area of tissue becomes infected and the body is able to "wall off" the infection to keep it from spreading. White blood cells, the body's defense against some types of infection, migrate through the walls of the blood vessels into the area of the infection and collect within the damaged tissue. During this process "pus" forms, which is an accumulation of fluid, living and dead white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other foreign invaders or materials.Symptoms
See the individual types of abscesses.Signs and tests
Often, a sample of fluid will be obtained from the abscess. It will be cultured to determine the organism causing the abscess. See the individual types of abscesses.Treatment
Treatment varies, but often requires antibiotics. See the individual types of abscesses.Expectations (prognosis)
Most types are treatable. See the individual types of abscesses.Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you think that you may have any type of abscess.Prevention
Prevention of abscesses is dependent on the location and cause. For example, good hygiene is important in prevention of skin abscesses. Dental hygiene and routine care will prevent dental abscesses.
Update Date: 7/16/2004 Updated by: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |