The pilonidal cyst is characterized by the formation of a small orifice, or nodule, at the level of the inter-gluteal groove. Its onset is usually sudden and without any real underlying cause. In addition, certain factors are favorable to the development of such a cyst: age, sex, hairiness or even sitting for a long time.

What is pilonidal cyst?

Definition of pilonidal cyst

The pilonidal cyst, also called “pilonidal sinus”, is characterized by the formation of a small orifice at the level of the buttocks slit (inter-gluteal groove) or even at the level of the coccyx (sacrococcygeal cyst)

Several cysts can develop in this part of the body, forming a small “tunnel”.

Many people associate, wrongly, the “sinus” mode to the nose. It is in fact a medical term to qualify a cavity or a “canal”.

The development of a pilonidal cyst is usually not associated with underlying symptoms, unless it turns out to be infected. In some cases, a small abscess filled with pus may develop. The signs associated with an infection of the cyst, result in hardening of the affected area, as well as swelling of this area.

It is still recommended to consult your doctor as soon as possible, in the context of a finding of such a cyst.

The origin of the pilonidal cyst

The exact origin of the development of a pilonidal cyst is still very little known.

However, there are certain factors that can increase the risk of developing this type of cyst. Among these factors, we can identify:obesity, a significant amount of hair, the sitting position continues and over the long term.

Who is affected by the development of such a cyst

The prevalence (number of people affected by the pathology) is relatively low with nearly 26 patients out of 100 each year.

A male predominance is however remarkable: with a risk twice as important for the men.

The average age of cyst development is 21 for men and 19 for women.

Children and adults over the age of 45, however, are less at risk of developing such a cyst.

Certain parameters can then be taken into account in the increased risk of the development of a pilonidal cyst:

• obesity, i.e. a BMI (Body Mass Index)> 30;
• age (between 15 and 40 years);
• hairiness (hence the predominant condition in men);
• trauma or surgical intervention in that part of the body;
• the presence of other cases in the same family;
• having a job requires sitting for a large majority of the working time.

Symptoms and treatments of pilonidal cyst

Symptoms of pilonidal cyst

The visible signs of the cyst are the detection of swelling in the inter-gluteal fold.

Usually without pain or underlying symptoms, in the context of an infection of this cyst, it can be associated with:

• a pain more or less important;
• the formation of a subcutaneous nodule ;
• un hardening of the skin in the infected area;
• the appearance of pus at the level of the cyst;
• the finding of blood at the level of the cyst;
• of fever.

These symptoms usually appear quickly and last only a few days.

In the case of the development of such symptoms, synonymous with an infection of the cyst, a consultation of the doctor as well as the follow-up of a treatment is necessary in order to avoid any aggravation. Difficulties in staying in a sitting or lying position can also be felt and thus impact the patient’s sleep.

Risk factors for pilonidal cyst

The risk factors for the development of such a cyst are then age, sex, hairiness or sedentary lifestyle linked to daily activity and / or work.

Treatments for a pilonidal cyst

The first phase of treatment for a pilonidal cyst is obviously to wash and dry the affected area well. Depilation of this area is also recommended to avoid any risk of additional infection.

In the context of a cyst infection, a visit to the doctor as well as the taking of an appropriate treatment is recommended in order to avoid any possible complications.

The associated treatment is often related to antibiotic therapy or the incision of the cyst to remove the pus and thus drain the affected area.

If the infection persists, surgery is possible. However, this is akin to rare cases of the pathology.

Sites of interest and sources

NHS CHOICES. 2014. Pilonidal sinus. [In line]. http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Pilonidal-sinus/Pages/Introduction.aspx.

da Silva JH. 2000 Pilonidal cyst: cause and treatment. [In line]. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10950015.