Pilonidal sinus, or pilonidal cyst, is a condition where hairs and foreign objects entering through openings created by fallen hairs on the back accumulate and form a lump in the coccygeal region. Patients often mistakenly believe that pilonidal sinus occurs when hairs grow inward rather than outward; however, this is not pilonidal sinus but rather a different issue known as an ingrown hair.
What is Pilonidal Sinus?
While pilonidal sinus can affect both men and women, it is more commonly observed in males aged between 15 and 35. It occurs as fallen hair from the back and nape travels downward, creating openings in the coccygeal region, entering and forming a lump.
Causes of Pilonidal Sinus:
You may wonder how hair creates an opening in the skin. Although we cannot see it with the naked eye, the tips of hair strands are grooved, and with friction while sitting, these hairs slowly enter the skin. After a while, multiple hairs enter, forming a lump underneath the skin. This lump is accompanied by oil tissues, skin debris, and clothing dust.
When the body notices these foreign materials forming a lump, it secretes a fluid to eliminate them. However, as it cannot eliminate them, inflammation occurs due to the inability to find an exit for the secreted fluid. The body then encapsulates the area around the lump.
Factors Leading to Pilonidal Sinus:
We discussed how hairs enter the skin and form a lump. The factors contributing to the entry of hairs and other foreign materials are as follows:
- Prolonged sitting
- Extended use of vehicles, bicycles, or motorcycles
- Excessive weight
- Excessive sweating
- Excessive body hair
All of the above factors, especially when combined, contribute to friction during prolonged sitting, playing a role in the development of pilonidal sinus.
Symptoms of Pilonidal Sinus, How to Recognize Them?
Pilonidal sinus does not present any symptoms during its formation. It progresses insidiously and becomes apparent through the body’s response after taking on a lump-like form. It becomes noticeable with the discharge that occurs after the onset of inflammation.
The patient’s underwear becomes damp. If left untreated, the discharge continues. As the discharge becomes persistent and inflammatory, it leads to a serious foul odor. Swelling, redness, itching, and pain accompany these complaints.
Listing the symptoms:
- Discharge
- Foul odor
- Swelling
- Itching
- Redness
- Pain and fever
Are the Symptoms of Pilonidal Sinus Different in Females?
All the symptoms we listed and discussed apply to both male and female patients. The symptoms are the same for everyone, regardless of age, race, or gender. While some individuals may experience less pain, others may experience more. Generally, the signs and complaints are the same.
Does It Heal on Its Own?
Pilonidal sinus is a problem that occurs beneath the skin. We mentioned that the disease consists of a capsule filled with hair and foreign objects. Therefore, this capsule is not a problem that can spontaneously resolve. It needs to be removed from under the skin through surgical methods. Saying that it heals on its own or attempting various methods at home will not treat the disease; instead, it may lead to its progression and worsen the condition.
If you have pilonidal sinus, it is recommended to consult a general surgery specialist without delay for treatment. In modern times, experienced doctors and advanced centers apply extremely modern, contemporary, and advantageous methods in the treatment of pilonidal sinus. You can explore the micro sinusectomy method, especially, and choose this method for treatment.
Does it Recur?
When pilonidal sinus is treated with advanced methods, it does not recur. However, to prevent it from recurring in the future, individuals need to pay attention to personal hygiene. Particularly, they should ensure there are no hairs left in the coccygeal region on a daily basis and perform the hygiene of this area more frequently. People who have never encountered pilonidal sinus can avoid the possibility of encountering it by paying attention to the hygiene of their coccygeal regions.
Where Does Pilonidal Sinus Occur?
As we continuously emphasize in the flow of our article, the most common location for pilonidal sinus in the body is the coccygeal region. Apart from this, it can also occur more rarely in the armpits, navel, and face, groin, or finger areas.
Who is Affected?
- Although it is mostly observed in males aged 15-35, it can also occur in females.
- Those who work sitting for prolonged periods. Especially those who sit at a desk for a long time and those who drive.
- Individuals with dense body hair.
- People with dark skin (mostly).
Which Doctor/Specialty to Consult for Pilonidal Sinus?
For the diagnosis and treatment of pilonidal sinus disease, it is necessary to consult general surgery specialists. Finding a doctor and center that applies the most modern and contemporary method, the micro sinusectomy technique, will provide an advantage. I practice the micro sinusectomy method at my clinic located in Kadıköy, Istanbul.
How to Prevent Pilonidal Sinus?
Take care to keep the coccygeal region clean. Change your underwear when you sweat. Perform the hygiene of the area meticulously on a daily basis. Avoid spreading when sitting.
