An abscess is a painful, localized collection of pus that develops within body tissue. It usually occurs when the body’s immune system responds to an infection or inflammation. Most skin abscesses are associated with bacterial infections. An abscess can develop on or beneath the skin or, depending on its location, inside the body. A skin abscess may appear as a red, swollen, tender lump that can feel warm to the touch and may contain pus. Abscesses can occur anywhere in the body, including the skin, mouth, organs, and deeper tissues. Some internal abscesses may not cause a visible lump and can produce symptoms related to the affected organ.
An abscess most commonly develops when microorganisms, particularly bacteria, enter tissue and the body’s immune system responds to the infection.Possible causes and risk factors include:
Bacterial infection
Infection of a blocked hair follicle or skin gland
An infected wound, cut, bite or puncture
A foreign object entering the skin
Blocked or infected glands
Certain underlying medical conditions that increase the risk of infection
A weakened immune system
In some cases, an abscess can develop as a complication of an existing infection or medical condition.
A dental abscess is a collection of pus caused by an infection in or around a tooth. It may cause toothache, gum swelling, facial swelling and sensitivity.
An abscess can also develop inside the body, including in organs or deeper tissues. Internal abscesses may cause fever, pain and other symptoms depending on their location and the organ involved.
A healthcare professional will usually examine the affected area and ask about symptoms and medical history. For a superficial abscess, a physical examination may be sufficient. Depending on the location and suspected cause, additional tests may sometimes be required, such as:
Ultrasound
CT scan or other imaging tests
Blood tests
Laboratory examination or culture of drainage from the abscess
The choice of tests depends on the location, severity and suspected cause of the abscess.
Treatment depends on the size, location and severity of the abscess and whether there is an associated infection. Some skin abscesses may require drainage by a healthcare professional. Antibiotics may also be prescribed in certain situations, particularly when there is significant surrounding infection, systemic illness, or an increased risk of complications. Do not attempt to squeeze, puncture or cut open an abscess yourself, as this may spread the infection or cause further tissue damage. For an internal abscess, treatment may involve antibiotics, drainage through a medical procedure, surgery, or treatment of the underlying cause.
You should seek medical advice if you have a painful, swollen or pus-filled lump, particularly if it is getting larger or more painful. Seek urgent medical attention if an abscess is accompanied by:
High fever or chills
Rapidly spreading redness or swelling
Severe or rapidly worsening pain
Feeling very unwell, weak or confused
Significant swelling of the face or neck
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Signs of a serious or spreading infection
People with conditions or treatments that weaken the immune system should seek medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms of an abscess.
Some small abscesses may resolve or drain naturally, but others require medical assessment and drainage. Do not assume that a painful or growing abscess will resolve without treatment.
No. Squeezing, cutting or puncturing an abscess yourself can potentially spread the infection and cause complications. Medical drainage, when necessary, should be performed by an appropriately trained healthcare professional.
Most skin abscesses are associated with bacterial infections, but abscess-like swellings can have different causes. A healthcare professional can determine the likely cause based on the clinical findings.
This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The information on this page should not be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. If you have symptoms of an abscess, particularly severe pain, fever, rapidly spreading redness or swelling, or other concerning symptoms, seek appropriate medical attention. Treatment should be determined by a qualified healthcare professional based on your individual condition.
