Pilonidal Cyst (Not Infected)

Causes

The cause of pilonidal cysts has been debated since they were first recognized. It may be present at birth and go unnoticed. Injury, rubbing, or skin irritation may also cause pilonidal cysts. It can also be caused by an ingrown hair. Most likely, the cause may be a mix of these things. Some injury or irritation can lead to pilonidal cysts. So they can be more common in people who sit or drive a lot for work.

Symptoms

A pilonidal cyst may be small and painless. If symptoms occur, they may include:

• Swelling

• Irritation or redness

• Pain

• Drainage

The cyst can swell and drain on its own. The swelling and drainage can come and go.

Treatment

If a pilonidal cyst isn't infected or causing problems, you may not need treatment beyond home care. In some cases, hair removal by shaving or laser treatment may be advised. Talk with your provider about your specific situation and if this is advised. It's not clear if hair removal is helpful in people with no symptoms.

If the cyst comes and goes, is bothering you, or becomes infected, you'll need medical care. You may need surgery to fix it.

Home care

These guidelines will help you care for your cyst at home:

• Keep the area of the cyst clean by bathing or showering every day.

• Don't wear tight-fitting clothing over the cyst.

• Don't try to squeeze the cyst or stick a needle in it to make it drain. It may feel better at first. But it will make it worse and likely cause infection.

• Watch for signs of infection listed below.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider as advised.

When to get medical care

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

• Pus coming from the cyst

• Increasing local pain, redness or swelling

• Fever of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider