Skin abscess

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Skin layers

Abscess - skin; Cutaneous abscess; Subcutaneous abscess

• Skin lesion
  • Open sore or closed, domed nodule
  • Reddened
  • May drain fluid
• Localized swelling, induration (hardening of tissue)
• Tender and warm affected area
• Fever or chills, in some cases

Your doctor can diagnose the condition based on the appearance of the area. A culture or examination of any drainage from the lesion may help identify what organism is causing it.

Review Date: 10/16/2006
Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.