Abscess

Question 1

What is an abscess?

Answer 1

a painful collection of pus, usually caused by bacterial infection.

Question 2

Describe the aetiology of abscesses

Answer 2

Bacterial infection leads to activation of immune response + recruitment of neutrophils to site of infection
As white cells attack the bacteria, surrounding tissue is damaged creating a cavity which fills with pus to form an abscess
Pus = mixture of dead tissue, white cells + bacteria

Question 3

Where can abscesses develop? What are the types of abscess?

Answer 3

Can develop anywhere in the body
External (Skin) abscess
Internal abscess

Question 4

What is the epidemiology of abscesses?

Answer 4

Skin abscesses are relatively common
IV drug use is a major RF for skin abscesses
Internal abscesses are less common

Question 5

List 8 signs and symptoms of an external abscess

Answer 5

Swollen, pus-filled lump under surface of skin
Erythema
Hot
Oedema
Pain
Loss of function  
Swinging fevers  
Malaise

Question 6

What investigations are used for abscesses?

Answer 6

Ultrasound

Question 7

Describe management of abscesses

Answer 7

Some disappear by themselves
Incision + Drainage
Prior- check for a foreign object causing the abscess (e.g. needle fragments in IV drug users). Abscess is cut open + drained of pus
Abx: Can be used alongside incision + drainage

Question 8

Give a complication of abscesses

Answer 8

Recurrence

Question 9

What is the prognosis for patients with abscesses?

Answer 9

Good with tx

Question 10

What is the usual causative organism of external skin abscesses?

Answer 10

Staphylococcus aureus

Question 11

List 3 signs and symptoms of an internal abscess

Answer 11

Systemically unwell
Pain
Fever