What is a pilonidal cyst and how is it treated in children?
Quick Answer
A pilonidal cyst is a small sac filled with fluid that forms under the skin near the tailbone.
Sometimes you might not even notice it, other times it can look like a small bump.
If the cyst gets infected, doctors might use a procedure called the Gips procedure to treat it, which involves draining and cleaning the area.
Recommended Practices
Maintain Good Hygiene
Gently wash the area around the tailbone daily with mild soap and water.
Ensure the area is thoroughly dried afterwards, especially after bathing or swimming.
This helps prevent bacteria from entering and causing infection.
Encourage Regular Physical Activity
Encourage your child to engage in regular physical activity to improve blood circulation and overall health.
Avoid prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces, as this can put pressure on the tailbone area.
Get them up and moving every hour or so.
Promote a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber can help boost the immune system and promote healing.
Make sure your child drinks plenty of water to stay hydrated, which is important for skin health.
Try to include foods rich in Vitamin C and Zinc.
Proper Wound Care (if applicable)
If your child has undergone a procedure to drain a pilonidal cyst, follow the doctor's instructions carefully for wound care.
This typically involves keeping the area clean and dry, changing dressings regularly, and monitoring for signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, or pus.
Choose Breathable Clothing
Dress your child in loose-fitting, breathable clothing, especially in hot and humid weather. Avoid tight clothing that can rub against the skin and cause irritation. Cotton clothing is a good choice.
Regular Skin Checks
Periodically check the skin around your child's tailbone for any signs of redness, swelling, or drainage.
Early detection of a potential problem can help prevent it from becoming more serious.
If you notice anything unusual, consult your doctor.
What to Avoid
Avoid Prolonged Sitting
Discourage your child from sitting for long periods, especially on hard surfaces.
This can increase pressure on the tailbone area and potentially contribute to the formation or irritation of a pilonidal cyst.
Encourage them to take breaks and move around.
Avoid Tight Clothing
Tight-fitting clothing can rub against the skin and cause irritation, increasing the risk of infection.
Choose loose-fitting, breathable clothing instead.
Avoid synthetic fabrics that don't breathe well.
Avoid Picking or Squeezing the Area
It's important to avoid picking or squeezing the area around the cyst, as this can introduce bacteria and lead to infection. Teach your child not to touch the area unnecessarily.
Avoid Harsh Soaps and Scrubs
Using harsh soaps or scrubs can irritate the skin and make it more susceptible to infection. Use a mild, gentle soap and avoid scrubbing the area vigorously.
Avoid Ignoring Early Symptoms
Don't ignore any early symptoms of a pilonidal cyst, such as redness, swelling, or pain.
Early treatment can help prevent the cyst from becoming infected and requiring more extensive treatment.
Consult your doctor promptly.
Avoid Unproven Home Remedies
Be cautious about using unproven home remedies for pilonidal cysts.
While some home remedies may provide temporary relief, they are not a substitute for medical treatment.
Always consult your doctor for appropriate treatment options.
Common Scenarios and Solutions
Your child complains of pain and discomfort while sitting.
Examine the tailbone area for any signs of redness, swelling, or drainage.
Encourage your child to stand up and move around every 30 minutes.
Apply a warm compress to the area for 15-20 minutes to relieve pain.
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor.
You notice a small, painless lump at the base of your child's spine.
Monitor the area for any changes in size, color, or tenderness. Keep the area clean and dry. If the lump becomes painful, red, or swollen, or if you notice any drainage, consult your doctor.
Your child has undergone a Gips procedure and the wound is healing slowly.
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully for wound care.
Ensure the area is kept clean and dry.
Change dressings regularly.
Monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus.
Contact your doctor if you have any concerns.
Your child is embarrassed about having a pilonidal cyst and doesn't want to talk about it.
Reassure your child that pilonidal cysts are common and treatable.
Explain the importance of good hygiene and seeking medical attention if needed.
Create a safe and supportive environment for your child to discuss their concerns.
Similar Questions Parents Ask
Are pilonidal cysts hereditary?
While there isn't a direct genetic link, a family history of pilonidal cysts might indicate a predisposition due to similar hair patterns or body types.
Can pilonidal cysts be prevented?
Yes, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding prolonged sitting, and wearing loose-fitting clothing can help prevent pilonidal cysts.
What is the recovery time after a Gips procedure?
Recovery time varies depending on the size and severity of the cyst, but it typically takes several weeks for the wound to heal completely.
Are there any alternative treatments for pilonidal cysts besides surgery?
In some cases, antibiotics may be used to treat an infected pilonidal cyst, but surgery is often necessary to remove the cyst completely.
Signs to Consult Immediately
Fever
Increased pain and swelling
Redness spreading from the cyst
Pus or foul-smelling drainage
Difficulty sitting or walking
Chills
Detailed Explanation
A pilonidal cyst forms when hair punctures the skin and then becomes embedded.
The body treats this hair as a foreign substance, triggering an immune response that leads to the formation of a cyst.
This is more common in children who have a lot of body hair or who sit for long periods.
Many pilonidal cysts are small and don't cause any symptoms.
However, if the cyst becomes infected, it can become painful, swollen, and red.
Pus may also drain from the cyst.
It's important to seek medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms.
The Gips procedure, mentioned in the original article, is one way doctors can treat an infected pilonidal cyst.
It involves surgically opening and draining the cyst, then cleaning the area thoroughly.
Sometimes, the wound is left open to heal, while other times it is closed with stitches.
In younger children, it's especially important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection.
As children get older and become more active, they may be more prone to developing pilonidal cysts due to increased sweating and friction.
Encourage good hygiene habits and regular bathing.
Premature babies and those with other health conditions are not typically at higher risk for pilonidal cysts unless they have specific skin sensitivities or conditions that affect their immune system.
However, always consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice.
During the summer months, increased sweating can make the area around the tailbone more prone to irritation and infection.
In the monsoon season, humidity can also contribute to this problem.
In winter, dry skin can become cracked and more susceptible to infection.
Adjust hygiene practices accordingly, ensuring the area is clean and dry regardless of the season.
Sources
Indian Sources
Refer to the IAP website for the latest guidelines on surgical conditions in children, including post-operative care.
International Sources
Refer to WHO guidelines on hygiene and infection prevention.
Check the AAP website for information on pediatric surgical conditions and post-operative care. "Proper wound care is essential to prevent infection."
UNICEF provides resources on child health and hygiene practices.
Recommended Reading for Parents
A comprehensive guide to child health and development, available in many bookstores in India.
A reliable website with articles and resources on various child health topics.