Skin abscess is defined as a confined pocket of pus that collects in tissues, organs or spaces inside the body.

Francis Kazungu, a general practitioner in Kigali, says they are typically caused by infections, and that when touched, are painful and warm.

"Abscesses can show up anywhere on your body on the skin, appearing like a little bump or a pimple that can grow into an inflamed, fluid-filled cyst. The skin surrounding an abscess is often painful and in some cases, they can be extremely hard and firm,” he says.

Depending on the cause, Kazungu says, the appearance of an abscess may be accompanied by fever, nausea, or swollen lymph nodes.

When our normal skin barrier is broken, even from minor trauma, or small tears, or inflammation, he says bacteria can enter the skin.

He explains that an abscess can form as the body’s defence tries to kill the germs with an inflammatory response.

Besides, experts say obstruction in sweat or oil (sebaceous) gland, or a hair follicle or a pre-existing cyst can also trigger an abscess.

The middle of the abscess dissolves and contains dead cells, bacteria, and other debris. This area begins to grow, creating tension under the skin and further inflammation of the surrounding tissues. Pressure and inflammation cause pain.

How to go about it

Dr Janvier Rusizana, a general practitioner at La Nouvelle Clinic, Kigali, says that unlike other infections, antibiotics alone do not usually cure an abscess.

In general, he says, an abscess must open and drain for it to improve, and that sometimes draining occurs on its own, but generally, it must be opened with the help of a warm compress or by a doctor in a procedure called incision and drainage (I&D).

"When it comes to diagnosis, it is usually made on appearance alone. While smaller abscesses can usually be treated at home,” Rusizana says.

Experts say small abscesses can be treated at home with a warm compress to relieve pain and promote drainage.

Rusizana goes on to add that medical attention for abscess should be considered in case of development of an abscess on the face, or development of multiple abscesses.

Also, worsening or extremely painful abscesses should be a medic case to avoid further complications.

Depending on the cause of an abscess, Kazungu says, a health practitioner may consider whether or not an antibiotic is needed.

On the other hand, he says, antibiotics are customarily prescribed to persons who have a weakened immune system or are experiencing whole-body symptoms, like fever.

In such cases, Kazungu says, an expert may take a pus sample to better evaluate the cause and ensure that the bacteria is not drug-resistant.

"It is important for one to not drain an abscess at home, as this can worsen the infection. It’s essential to always wash your hands after touching an abscess and clean anything that comes in contact with it, including clothing and compresses,” advises Kazungu.

According to Rusizana, while abscesses are not entirely avoidable, there are a few simple measures to prevent them.

He says the first step is to always wash your hands with an antibacterial cleanser or soap.

Secondly, he notes that treating any cuts with care, keeping them clean, covered, and dry until they are fully healed is important.

Kazungu says it’s essential for one not to share personal items like razors, towels, lipstick, or lip balm with others.

Additionally, he says, avoid cutting yourself while shaving underarms.