The pilonidal cyst is a very common pathology that affects the lower back, in the fold between both buttocks.
And it presents as a cyst or abscess that forms when body hair penetrates the skin and creates a sinus canal.
This painful and uncomfortable condition, when not adequately addressed, can have serious consequences for the patient’s health and quality of life.
Pilonidal sinus is a very common dermatological problem among the Spanish population (26 cases per 100,000 inhabitants) and mainly affects young people of working age.
Below, we will explore the complications that can arise when the pilonidal spancyst is not treated or left uncontrolled, highlighting, of course, the importance of seeking specialized medical attention to solve this problem.
Complications of pilonidal cyst without treatment
Pilonidal sinus is a chronic condition that tends to worsen over time if not treated properly.
If ignored or left untreated, the pilonidal cyst can become inflamed and filled with pus, which can result in a very painful abscess, leading to a fistula.
Leaving the pilonidal sinus untreated can also lead to chronic infection, increasing the risk of more serious complications.
Read here: How to know if you suffer from pilonidal sinus?
In extreme cases, the infection can spread to nearby tissues and structures, which may require more aggressive and prolonged treatments.
Progressive deterioration of the pilonidal cyst
The pilonidal cyst can experience progressive deterioration if it does not receive adequate treatment.
That is, what is initially a small inflammation or pain, can become more acute and annoying over time.
Symptoms may intensify and make it difficult to perform daily activities, such as sitting, walking, or doing some type of exercise.
Additionally, the cyst can increase in size and develop multiple branches, which can complicate its removal and require more extensive surgeries if not treated in time.
Risk of infection of pilonidal cyst and abscesses
Untreated pilonidal sinus can lead to recurrent infections.
For example, the accumulation of bacteria inside the cyst and purulent material increases the risk of infection; if the infection is not treated properly, abscesses could form.
Abscesses can cause painful swelling and may require surgical drainage for treatment.
Additionally, there is an increased risk of developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma in the area affected by a chronic pilonidal sinus.
Although this type of cancer is not common, it is important to consider the potential risk and the importance of seeking timely treatment.
Limitations in quality of life
Untreated pilonidal cyst can have a significant impact on the patient’s quality of life.
Constant pain and discomfort in the sacrococcygeal area can make daily activities difficult, such as sitting for long periods, playing sports, or carrying out work tasks.
Obviously, these limitations will end up negatively affecting the patient’s emotional and social well-being.
Recurrence and long-term complications
There is a high risk of recurrence and long-term complications when the pilonidal cyst is not treated properly.
The lack of effective treatment can lead to infections, painful abscesses and the formation of fistulas, which require more complex and prolonged treatments.
After a wide and radical removal of the cyst, the recurrence rate in these patients can be 13%. In patients who do not undergo surgery the percentage is much higher.
This figure does nothing more than affirm that the pilonidal sinus should not be ignored or left uncontrolled or untreated.
We recommend you read: Surgical techniques for pilonidal sinus.
Seeking specialized medical care to receive an early diagnosis and personalized treatment is essential.
At Innova Cirugia we are specialists in coloproctological surgery and are trained to evaluate and manage pilonidal sinus effectively.
Avoid consequences and complications!
Your health and quality of life are most important, so take steps to address your pilonidal cyst early and restore your well-being.
