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Skin Abscess
Alternate Names : Abscess - Skin, Cutaneous Abscess, Subcutaneous Abscess
Definition A skin abscess is a collection of pus and infected material in or on the skin.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Skin abscesses are fairly common. They are caused when an infection causes pus and infected material to collect in the skin. Skin abscesses may follow a bacterial infection, commonly an infection with staphylococcus. They can develop after a minor wound, injury, or as a complication of folliculitis or boils. Skin abscesses may occur anywhere on the body. They affect people of all ages.
The abscess can prevent deeper tissues from functioning properly. The infection may spread locally or throughout the body. The spread of infection through the bloodstream may cause severe complications.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Skin Abscess Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Skin Abscess Symptoms & Signs
• Skin Abscess Prevention
• Skin Abscess Diagnosis & Tests
• Skin Abscess Treatment
• Skin Abscess Prognosis
• Skin Abscess Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Endocarditis
• Folliculitis
• Furuncle
• Osteomyelitis
• Scleroma
Other Topics
• Nodules
• Rashes
• Swelling
Review Date : 4/15/2003
Reviewed By : Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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