The word pilonidal sinus is a word of Latin origin, derived from the words 'pilu' meaning hair and 'nidus' meaning nest.
Pilonidal sinus disease, popularly known as ingrown hair, occurs due to hairs entering the subcutaneous area from the outer surface of the skin. Hair intrusion occurs in two different ways. The most common form of the disease occurs when hairs enter the skin from the outside. Pilonidal sinus, which occurs in the groin area, occurs when the hairs growing from inside the skin to the outside of the skin cannot get out of the skin and form abscesses and subcutaneous tunnels.
The disease seen in the intergluteal region is more severe. Pilonidal sinus is much less common in the beard, bikini area, belly, face and neck than in the intergluteal region.
In order to prevent the growth of hair entering the subcutaneous area from the outer surface of the skin, the body delivers the defense system cells to that area and this It creates a thin wall to confine the object. The hairs that enter the skin hold together and form a cyst in this area. The reaction fluid formed here occasionally leaks and causes stains on underwear. Sometimes, it can manifest itself as hardness, swelling or abscess formation in the area that the patient notices, without producing any external discharge.
When pilonidal sinus occurs close to the anus, it can be confused with diseases such as perianal abscess or fistula. For this reason, examination by a specialist physician is very important for diagnosis.
What Causes Ingrown Hair?
Since the coccyx is a hollow and curved area, hair falls out from the back and neck. accumulates here. As a result of the area being stuffy and sweating frequently, the hair accumulates and sinks into the skin. Constantly sitting in a sitting position, choosing tight clothes and being overweight are among the other reasons that cause ingrown hair in the area.
Other reasons for its formation in the coccyx include skin sensitivity and genetic factors.
To prevent ingrown hairs, care should be taken to clean the intergluteal area. If ingrown hair is not treated in time, the hair nests accumulated under the skin will spread not only to the coccyx but also to the hips, causing abscesses to form under the skin. This creates different opening points similar to a tunnel.
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