Causes of Pilonidal Cyst at the Base of Spine
Q: Near the base of my spine/tailbone, I noticed what I thought was a small cyst a few days ago. It has now gotten bigger, probably at least the size of a golf ball but not necessarily circular. There is pain while sitting up straight or leaning back. It is not above the skin- like anything that would need to be popped or drained. It is not movable. If I pull on the skin surrounding it, it will move with the skin, like it is attached under the skin. Should this be of immediate concern, what could it be?
– By 25 years old female.
Reply:
Sounds like a pilonidal cyst. You may consult a doctor to get it examined and confirm the diagnosis.
A Pilonidal cyst is basically a cystic (fluid filled) swelling present near the cleft of the buttocks. It is filled with skin debris and hair remnants.
It is supposed to be caused by an ingrown hair. As the hair penetrates deeper into the subcutaneous tissue through a dilated hair follicle, an irritation is elicited. Hair acts as a foreign material against which an inflammatory response is triggered. This results in the formation of a cyst around the trapped hair.
Predisposing Factors
- Weight gain– As we grow and gain weight, the cleft between our buttocks becomes bigger. The heavier we are, the deeper is the cleft. Hair are present in it. Pressure exerted while sitting or standing is enough to push a hair into the skin.
- Long hours of sitting straight or standing. During both of these positions, the cleft is closed tight, and the small hair in it may grow inwards.
- Being too hairy.
- Improper hygiene of the area, which may lead to accumulation of moisture and debris.
Treatment
Usually no treatment is required till you get any disturbing symptoms. If you feel any pain, it may indicate that the cyst is infected. In such cases, antibiotics are required. Surgical drainage of the cyst may also be done.
Take Care,
Buddy M.D.
