Haemorrhoids & Anal Fissures

Question 1

What is pilonidal disease?

Answer 1

Insertion of hairs in the skin of the natal cleft causing a chronic inflammatory response forming a discharging sinus (can precipitate abscess formation)

Question 2

What is the typical presentation of a pilonidal abscess?

Answer 2

• young males
• thick, stiff body hair
• offensive discharge from natal cleft
• discomfort when seated
• o/e: sinus tracts
  (tender, fluctuant swelling with low-grade fever)