Hello,

I have a question about what I think is a pilonidal cyst- a couple of years ago I noticed a bump near the bottom of my tail bone (about an inch in diameter). It must have begun draining about a year ago, because there is a discharge for a couple of days every few months or so. The curious thing is, that as far as I can recall I have experienced no pain at all from the cyst. I figure this is unusual because most of the accounts on the internet say that it can become quite painful when it is infected and discharges. My question is, are there any consequences if I choose to live with this condition? That is, not having it lanced or surgically removed? Forgive me, but the fact the it often returns even after surgery leaves me thinking, "why bother going through the whole ordeal if it is virtually harmless"?

Oh and also, does this always originate from an in-grown hair, or could it occur after trauma to the tail-bone region? I remember falling on this area about 4 years ago- which caused my lower back to spasm and such severe pain that I could hardly walk for three days. I was just wondering..

Anyways, thanks for your responses.