Pilonidal Sinus Flashcards
1
Q
def
A
pilonidal sinus AKA ‘nest of hair’ is an abnormal epithelium-lined tract with hair that opens to the skin surface
2
Q
where are pilonidal sinuses commonly found
A
natal cleft (groove between the buttocks)
3
Q
aetiology
A
hairs penetrating the skin leading to inflammation and sinus development
4
Q
epi
A
common
young adults
male>females
5
Q
associations
A
hairy people
6
Q
history
A
painful natal cleft
possible discharge/swelling
7
Q
examination
A
midline openings between buttocks (hair may protrude)
tender swelling with infection or abscess, there may be pus or bloodstained fluid
8
Q
investigations
A
none - diagnosis made on history and examination
possible bloods for raised WCC in infection
9
Q
management
A
1 acute pilonidal abscess -incision and drainage 2 chronic pilonidal sinus -sinus tract excision, skin healing -preventing recurrence by attention to hygeine, hair removal, shaving
10
Q
complications
A
pain
infection
abscess
recurrence
11
Q
prognosis
A
good with appropriate management
