Alternative Names
Abscess - skin; Cutaneous abscess; Subcutaneous abscess
Definition of Skin abscess:
A skin abscess is a collection of pus and infected material in or on the skin.
Causes, incidence, and 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.
An 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.
