Abscess
An abscess is a contained area of infection within the body. The infection is usually bacterial and results in the formation of pus. This collection of pus and infected material forms a pocket that is separated from the rest of the body. Specifically, there is no blood supply to the abscess. This means that the body’s immune system, as well as any prescribed antibiotics cannot reach the infected area. The body will tend to “wall off“ the abscess, but without an adequate blood supply, the infection within the abscess will persist and potentially grow. The abscess, as well as any surrounding infection, can be very problematic for the body. An abscess can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and a high fever. Many abscesses will continue to grow until they are lanced or burst out from the skin exuding pus –and decompressing the abscess.
Treatment of an Abscess
Effective treatment of an abscess requires lancing to release the pus. This often needs to be combined with a formal surgical cleaning out of the infected area, and the administration of antibiotics. The reason that releasing the pus from the abscess is so important is that it will hopefully allow the body’s blood supply to reach the infected area. With adequate blood perfusion supplying the infected area; oxygen, the immune system, and antibiotics can reach the infected area, and hopefully fight off the infection. However, if the abscess is incompletely released, or there remains tissue that does not have a good blood supply the abscess and the associated infection can easily recur.
July 14th, 2024