Surgery - Abscesses Flashcards
1
Q
What is an abscess?
A
- Localized area of induration or fluctuance caused by a collection of pus within the dermis or deeper skin tissues secondary to infection and inflammation.
2
Q
What causes an abscess?
A
There is usually a breakdown in the integrity of the skin allowing normal flora to invade.
- Ex: insect bites, abrasions, shaving, IVDA
Increased likelihood of abscess formation with:
- Increased temperature
- Increased humidity
- Poor hygiene
- Sitting often
- DIABETICS
Common affected areas include gluteal, superior gluteal fold and axilla but often found on back and extremities
3
Q
What organisms commonly cause abscesses?
A
- Causative organisms depend on area of abscess but most commonly caused by Staph. Aureus and Streptococcus.
- Increase in incidence of CA-MRSA (community associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus )
4
Q
What are common risk factors for MRSA?
A
- Resident of long term care facility
- Sharing needles, razors or other sharps
- Sharing sports equipment
- Military service
- Incarceration
- IVDA
- Men who have sex with men
- HIV infection
- Recent hospitalization
5
Q
How will an abscess present?
A
- Painful, tender, erythematous
- Indurated in early, fluctuant later
6
Q
What are some common types of abscesses?
A
- Cutaneous
- Perirectal
- Pilonidal
- Infected Sebaceous Cyst
- Hidradenitis Suppurativa
- Axilla, groin, perineal
- Blocked apocrine glands
- Chronic
- Bartholin’s gland abscess, Paronychia, Felon
7
Q
Peranal Abscesses
A
8
Q
Bartolin’s Cyst
A
9
Q
How do I know if an abscess is “ready” to be drained?
A
Early abscess: indurated
- Warm compresses, antibiotics
- Warn most likely need I&D
- F/U in 3-4 days
Fluctuant
If unsure, can aspirate (18 guage needle and 10 cc syringe)
