Abscess

An immunologically contained and controlled lesion that is an accumulation of pus (neutrophils) in a pocket found in tissue. Caused by inflammation induced by either (1) a localized infection caused by bacteria or parasites or (2) foreign materials lodged in the tissue. It is a defensive mechanism to prevent the dissemination of the infection to other parts of the body.


A swollen infected, inflamed area filled with pus in body tissues.


A localized, circumscribed collection of pus.


A lump of pus caused by inflammation or bacteria.


A localized collection of pus anywhere in the body, surrounded and walled off by damaged and inflamed tissues. A ‘boil is an example of an abscess within the skin. The usual cause is local bacterial infection, often by staphylococci, that the body’s defenses have failed to overcome. In a cold abscess, sometimes due to tubercle organisms, there is swelling, but little pain or inflammation (as in acute abscesses). Antibiotics, aided by surgical incision to release pus where necessary, are the usual forms of treatment.


An inflamed area of the body characterized by swelling and an accumulation of pus.


A painful swollen area where pus forms.


Accumulation of pus that results from a breakdown of tissues (a common problem being tissue breakdown around a tooth, producing an abscessed tooth).


A cavity containing pus and surrounded by inflamed tissue.


An internal or external localized area of infection, usually caused by bacteria, consisting of a pus-filled cavity surrounded by an area of inflamed tissue.


A localized collection of pus. A minute abscess is known as a pustule; a diffused production of pus is known as cellulitis or erysipelas. An abscess may be acute or chronic. An acute abscess is one which develops rapidly within the course of a few days or hours. It is characterized by a definite set of symptoms.


An enclosed collection of pus in tissues, organs or confined spaces in the body. An abscess is a sign of infection and is usually swollen and inflamed.


An assemblage of purulent matter resulting from the intrusion of microorganisms, predominantly bacteria, into the body. Pus emerges as a consequence of cellular disintegration within the affected tissues, as well as the presence of leukocytes, specifically a subtype of white blood cells, dispatched to combat the infection. Additionally, both deceased and viable microorganisms contribute to its composition. Typically, an encircling layer called a pyogenic membrane develops in the vicinity of the localized accumulation of pus, commonly referred to as an abscess.


An abscess has the potential to form in various organs and within the subcutaneous tissues, occasionally taking the shape of a collar-stud abscess—a petite hollow linking to a larger cavity nestled within the profound tissues. Frequently encountered locations for abscesses encompass the axilla, mammary gland region, inguinal area, and oral cavity. Less commonly observed sites include the hepatic and cerebral regions.


Abscesses typically arise from the presence of common bacteria, notably staphylococci, although fungal infections can also be a contributing factor. Notably, liver abscesses can be caused by amoebae, which are single-celled microorganisms. Infectious agents gain access to internal organs either through the bloodstream or by infiltrating the underlying tissues via an infected wound or bite.


Individuals with compromised immune systems, including those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, individuals with HIV infection, or individuals with AIDS, are particularly vulnerable to the development of abscesses.


The presence of an abscess can result in varying degrees of pain, contingent upon its location. Larger abscesses often induce fever accompanied by chills, profuse sweating, and a general feeling of discomfort. Abscesses may generate a sensation of heightened pressure, while those situated near the surface of the skin can lead to inflammation characterized by redness and swelling.


Bacterial infections are typically addressed with antibiotic medications, while antifungal drugs are employed to combat fungal infections, and specific amoebicides are administered for the treatment of amoebiasis. In the majority of cases, abscesses necessitate drainage by means of an incision made in the abscess cavity’s lining to facilitate the release of pus, often accompanied by the placement of a tube to ensure continuous drainage. In certain instances, abscesses rupture spontaneously, leading to the discharge of their contents.


Abscesses frequently diminish solely through the process of drainage, while some diminish as a result of both drainage and pharmaceutical intervention. On certain occasions, the existence of an abscess within a crucial organ inflicts substantial harm to the adjacent tissue, leading to enduring impairment of regular functionality or even fatality.


A concentrated area of pus within the body. When bacteria or other germs infect the body, white blood cells rush to the area to combat the infection. In the process, these cells die. The accumulation of millions of these dead cells and bacteria forms a yellowish substance known as pus. Abscesses can occur in various locations throughout the body.


 


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