Pilonidal Abcess/Cyst...anyone had it or know anything about it?

[KOArtist]

My buddy that just started his first cycle a few weeks ago had to go to the docs today to get antibiotics for a "pilonidal" cyst/abcess. Is there any possibility that the injections caused it? Or would that just be a coincidence?

Also, does anybody know how bad the surgery for it is, and how much it might cost? (He doesn't have health insurance right now)

Also, if anyone knows of any doctors/surgeons that are experienced in this pilonidal stuff in the San Diego area, please let me know.

thanks

 

[guest username]

Almost any general surgeon is familiar with it, but gastrointestinal surgeons specialize in it.

It's unlikely to have been caused by steroids. There are a couple of theories as to causes. Some think it's ingrown hairs (pilonidal means nest of hair). Some think they're present from birth and for some reason become infected.

Antibiotics usually do not help. It requires incision and drainage, and sometimes surgery to correct any fistulas (tracts) that might form.

 

[EF Antonio Banderas]

bump

 

[pstate]

bro i think its just a coincidence, a pilondial cyst is caused by and ingrown hair, and i hear they can get real nasty

 

[here2help]

Sorry to toss this back up to the top, but anyone looking for info on this should check out pilonidal.org

I've had 3 surgeries for this so far and I'm getting to the point of needing a 4th sometime within the next year.

The surgeries can vary depending on how big they are and if it's just a cyst or a sinus. A sinus is a tunnel that leads from the cyst and can go from the base of the spine (tailbone) to the surface of the cleft. If there is a sinus with multiple tracts (branches) then they need to remove all skin around the cyst and sinus.

My first surgery for this was the worst. It's an outpatient procedure, so you'll wake up in the ICU and then have a family member drive you home. I was on my stomach on a bed for a full week and a half. I'll spare everyone from the gross/painful parts, but if you guys have more questions about this condition, please feel free to PM me.