A skin abscess is a collection of pus under the skin. The pus builds up as a reaction to germs (usually bacteria) that have gotten through a cut into the skin.
Some abscesses drain through an opening in the skin. Sometimes the health care provider needs to drain the abscess. Kids with a skin abscess usually feel better soon after the pus drains. The health care provider will prescribe antibiotics, if needed. Here's how to care for your child while they heal.
Your child:
How does an abscess form? When germs get into the skin through a cut, the body's immune system sends white blood cells to fight the germs. The white blood cells make pus, which gets trapped under the skin and forms the abscess.
What types of germs lead to an abscess? The abscess is usually caused by a type of staph bacteria. Staph bacteria normally live on the skin and don't cause any problems. But if the bacteria get into the body through a cut in the skin, it can cause an infection. Staph aureus and MRSA (methicillin-resistant staph aureus) are the most common bacteria that cause abscesses.
Does a child with an abscess always need an antibiotic? Some abscesses will get better on their own so not all children need antibiotics. If your child needs an antibiotic, the health care provider will choose one that treats the specific bacteria.