General Q and A Forum - Is swollen skin sinus pilonidalis ?

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Q: Is swollen skin sinus pilonidalis ?

asked by: DoctorQuestion on December 29th, 2007

Hello,
I have a question regarding a condition I have had for a while now. At the top-left part of my rear (between the cheeks), just under the small of my back, I have a small oval-shaped region of light-colored skin which occasionally swells up, becoming sore and hard, making it difficult to sit. This happens periodically, approximately once every 2 months. Soon after, the swollen area bursts with blood, and lots of it. There is also a mucus-like discharge from the area. It is unlike a cut, which heals up and that's it; this has been occurring since before I was a pre-teen. I don't know what it is and don't know what to do about it. I've tried covering the area with cotton balls, which help absorb the blood and discharge, but it keeps coming back. Other than for the ~week ever 2 months, the area is normal (still discolored). Do you know what this is, how to fix it, or if I should see someone about it? Thanks.

Replies(1)

Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD

replied on January 16th, 2008

General Q and A Answer A3523

According to the location of the condition (between the buttocks) and the symptoms that you describe (swelling, soreness, hardness, mucus-like discharge, hard to sit…) you could be experiencing a condition called sinus pilonidalis. Sinus pilonidalis is a chronic inflammation of the skin due to reverse growth of the hair. The only efficient therapy of this condition is surgical removal of the effected skin area.

You can visit your GP first and then, if necessary, request a referral to a surgeon or dermatologist for proper diagnosis, treatment, and follow up.

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