An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms at the site of infected
tissue. An abscess can form on the skin or on tissues within the body and cause
pain, swelling, and tenderness.
Bacteria are a common cause of the infections that form abscesses.
Depending on the size and location of the abscess, your health
professional may treat the abscess by:
- Using a needle to drain it.
- Cutting
open the abscess to remove the pus and infectious material.
- Prescribing antibiotics (pills or a shot). This may be adequate
treatment if the abscess is small and treatment is not delayed.
