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Skin layers
Skin layers


Skin abscess

Alternative Names:
Abscess - skin; Cutaneous abscess; Subcutaneous abscess

Symptoms:
  • Skin lesion
    • Open sore or closed, domed nodule
    • Reddened
    • May drain fluid
  • Localized swelling, induration (hardening of tissue)
  • Tender and warm affected area
  • Fever or chills, in some cases


Signs and tests:

Your doctor can diagnose the condition based on the appearance of the area. A culture or examination of any drainage from the lesion may help identify what organism is causing it.




Review Date: 10/29/2004
Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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