From the Guidelines
An abscess typically will not resolve on its own without treatment and usually requires medical intervention, such as incision and drainage, and possibly antibiotics, to prevent worsening, spread, or systemic infections. Most abscesses need to be drained by a healthcare professional through a procedure called incision and drainage (I&D), where the doctor makes a small cut to allow the pus to escape. After drainage, antibiotics may be prescribed depending on the severity and location of the infection, as well as the presence of certain conditions such as sepsis, surrounding soft tissue infection, or immune system disturbances 1.
Key Considerations
- The primary treatment for a cutaneous abscess is incision and drainage, with antibiotic therapy recommended for abscesses associated with severe or extensive disease, rapid progression, or signs of systemic illness 1.
- Common antibiotics used for abscess treatment include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, clindamycin, or doxycycline, with the specific regimen depending on the severity and location of the infection, as well as the presence of certain conditions such as sepsis or immune system disturbances 1.
- Sampling of drained pus may be considered in high-risk patients, such as those with risk factors for multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) infection, recurrent infections, or non-healing wounds, to guide antibiotic therapy 1.
Treatment Approach
- Incision and drainage is typically necessary to effectively treat an abscess, as the thick wall that forms around the infection prevents antibiotics from penetrating effectively.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed after drainage, depending on the severity and location of the infection, as well as the presence of certain conditions such as sepsis or immune system disturbances.
- The duration and type of antibiotics may vary, but a 5-10 day course of empiric antibiotics may reduce the incidence of post-operative fistula, although the evidence is low 1.
From the Research
Abscess Resolution
- An abscess is a collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body, indicating a local infection 2.
- The resolution of an abscess without treatment is not typically recommended, as it can lead to further complications such as the spread of infection or the formation of more severe abscesses 3.
Treatment Options
- Incision and drainage (I&D) is a common treatment for abscesses, which involves surgically draining the pus from the abscess 2.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed in addition to I&D to help clear up the infection, especially if the abscess is large or if there are signs of systemic infection 3.
- In some cases, antibiotics alone may be sufficient to treat an abscess, especially if it is small or if the patient is not a good candidate for surgery 4.
Specific Types of Abscesses
- Different types of abscesses, such as Bartholin, breast, dental, hidradenitis suppurativa, peritonsillar, and pilonidal abscesses, may require different treatment approaches 2.
- For example, needle aspiration is often used to treat small breast abscesses, while dental abscesses may be treated with antibiotics and drainage 2.
Conclusion is not allowed, so the information will continue
Efficacy of Treatment
- Studies have shown that treatment with antibiotics, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, can improve outcomes for patients with abscesses 3.
- The efficacy of treatment may depend on the size and location of the abscess, as well as the presence of underlying medical conditions 3.
- In general, prompt treatment of an abscess is important to prevent further complications and promote healing [(2,3,4)].