Abscess

Definition:

A localized collection of pus in any part of the body that is the result of the displacement or disintegration of tissue.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Abscesses occur when a small area of tissue becomes infected and the body is able to "wall off" the infection and keep it from spreading. White blood cells, the body's defense against some types of infection, migrate through the walls of the blood vessels in the area of the infection and collect within the damaged tissue. During this process "pus" forms which is an accumulation of fluid, living and dead white blood cells, dead (necrotic) tissue, and bacteria or other foreign invaders or materials.

Abscesses can form in almost every part of the body and may be caused by bacteria, parasites, and foreign materials. Abscesses in the skin are readily visible, red, raised and painful. Abscesses in other areas of the body may not be obvious but if they involve vital organs they may cause significant damage.

For information about a specific type of abscess see one of the following topics:

• amebic liver abscess
• anorectal abscess
• Bartholin's abscess
• brain abscess
• abscess - tooth
• epidural abscess
• peritonsillar abscess
• pyogenic liver abscess
• skin abscess
• spinal cord abscess
• subcutaneous abscess