Lumps and bumps pop up on our bodies all the time. Sometimes, it’s difficult to know what they are. Cysts and abscesses, in particular, are often confused with one another because they can cause similar symptoms like swelling and discomfort.
So what’s the difference between a cyst and an abscess? This article will explore the definitions, causes, types, treatments, and prevention methods for both conditions.
It’s important to remember that self-diagnosing skin issues can be tricky. Always consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
What is a cyst?
A cyst is a closed, pouch-like structure filled with liquid, semi-solid material, or solid material. Most cysts are benign and don’t cause any symptoms unless they get big or become infected.
Cysts tend to form slowly over time.
There are many different kinds of cysts, including:
- Sebaceous cysts, which form when sebaceous glands get blocked
- Epidermoid cysts, which develop from hair follicles
- Ovarian cysts, which occur on the ovaries
- Breast cysts, fluid-filled sacs in the breast
- Other types such as lipomas, ganglions, pilar cysts, dermoid cysts, mucous cysts, and Baker’s cysts
Cysts may be caused by:
- Blocked glands or ducts
- Genetic conditions
- Infections
- Injuries
- Tumors
Understanding Abscesses: Formation, Varieties, and Triggers
What is an Abscess?
An abscess is your body’s way of trying to wall off an infection. It’s a pocket of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue. Abscesses are usually caused by bacteria, and they can be painful.
Abscesses tend to spring up fast.
Common Types of Abscesses
- Skin abscesses. These form under the skin, often starting as boils.
- Dental abscesses. These develop in the teeth or gums.
- Breast abscesses. These develop in breast tissue.
- Internal abscesses. These can form in organs like the liver or lungs.
Causes of Abscesses
Most often, abscesses are caused by:
- Bacterial infection
- Foreign objects
- Wounds
Cysts vs. abscesses: a detailed comparison
Cysts and abscesses may look similar, but there are some key differences to keep in mind.
Key differences in composition and symptoms
- Contents: Cysts are filled with fluid, a semi-solid substance, or solid material, while abscesses are filled with pus.
- Pain: Cysts are often painless unless they become infected. Abscesses, on the other hand, are usually painful, tender, and inflamed.
- Speed of development: Cysts tend to develop slowly over time, while abscesses can develop relatively quickly.
- Other symptoms: Abscesses are associated with redness, swelling, and warmth, which are signs of an infection.
The role of infection
While cysts themselves aren’t infections, they can become infected and turn into abscesses. Abscesses, by definition, are always associated with an infection.
Examples in specific locations
In the Bartholin’s glands, for example, abscesses are more common than cysts. In fact, Bartholin’s gland abscesses are about three times as common as Bartholin’s gland cysts.
Similarly, dental cysts may not cause any symptoms, while dental abscesses are known to cause pain.
Treatment and management strategies
Both cysts and abscesses sometimes require medical intervention, but the approaches are different.
Cyst treatment
- Observation: Small cysts that aren’t causing any symptoms may not need treatment at all.
- Aspiration: Draining the fluid from the cyst can relieve discomfort.
- Surgical removal: Large, painful, or troublesome cysts may need to be surgically removed.
Abscess treatment
- Drainage: Removing the pus and relieving pressure is essential.
- Antibiotics: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are often used to fight the bacterial infection.
Specific treatment examples
A Word catheter can be used to drain a Bartholin’s cyst or abscess.
Root canal treatment may be used for dental cysts that are connected to dead roots.
Prevention and when to seek medical attention
There are steps you can take to lower your risk of developing a cyst or an abscess. These include:
- Practicing good hygiene by washing your hands and cleansing your skin
- Protecting your skin from cuts and other injuries
- Managing any underlying conditions, such as diabetes or immune disorders
- Avoiding squeezing or picking at skin bumps
See a healthcare provider if you notice:
- Increasing pain, redness, or swelling
- Foul-smelling pus or drainage
- Fever
- Lumps or bumps that don’t go away
Putting It All Together
Cysts are usually harmless sacs, while abscesses are infections filled with pus. Because they require different treatments, it’s important to get a diagnosis from a healthcare provider.
Whether you have a cyst or an abscess, medical attention can help you prevent complications and get the best possible outcome.