Abscesses

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

A buildup of pus that can affect any part of the body - skin, mouth and around the organs

Question 2

Name the common types of skin abscess (3)

Answer 2

Armpit
Breast
Anorectal

Question 3

Name common types of mouth abscess (4)

Answer 3

Gingival (gum)
Tonsillar
Peritonsillar (Quinsy)
Retropharyngeal (forms from pharyngitis)

Question 4

Name 3 common internal abscesses

Answer 4

abdominal
spinal
brain

Question 5

Presentation of skin abscess - 4

Answer 5

Red, yellow or white (bcos of pus)
Raised
Swollen
Tender

Question 6

Prx of mouth abscess - 5

Answer 6

Toothache
Visible swelling
Dysphagia
Teeth sensitivity
Difficulty opening the mouth

Question 7

Cause - 2

Answer 7

Usually a bacterial infection - Staphylococcus

Rarely it can be viral, parasitic or fungi

Question 8

Investigations - 3

Answer 8

• Examine abscess
• Collect sample of pus
• for internal, may need a USS, CT or MRI

Question 9

Management - 3

Answer 9

• may be able to use warm compress and will resolve by itself
• antibiotics
• surgical drainage

Question 10

Differentials - 1

Answer 10

Boil (furuncle) - abscess that forms at the site of a sweat gland or hair follicle