Pilonidal dimple

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Anatomical landmarks, back view

Pilonidal cyst and dimple

Sacral dimple

Keep pilonidal dimples clean and free of debris during regular bathing. Report any drainage of fluid from the dimple, either clear or containing pus, to your health care provider.

• You note swelling, redness, drainage or tenderness around the pilonidal dimple.

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. In the vast majority of cases, the examining physician will merely comment that your infant or child has a pilonidal dimple and that you should not worry. On the rare occasion (when other findings may be associated), you may be asked the following information:

Medical history questions documenting pilonidal dimple in detail may include:

• Has there been any change in the appearance of the pilonidal dimple?
• Has there been any drainage from the dimple?
• Are any other symptoms developing?
• What other symptoms are also present?
• Is there any numbness or loss of movement in the legs?
• Has there been any change in bladder control?

If the lesion is an infected pilonidal cyst, surgery to remove the cyst may be recommended. Studies may be done to determine if the sinus extends into the spinal cord.

Review Date: 05/03/2006
Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, MD, Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.