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Skin abscess - Overview

Alternative Names

Abscess - skin; Cutaneous abscess; Subcutaneous abscess

Definition of Skin abscess:

A skin abscess is a collection of pus and infected material in or on the skin.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Skin abscesses are fairly common. They occur when an infection causes pus and infected material to collect in the skin.

Skin abscesses may occur after:

Skin abscesses may occur anywhere on the body. They affect people of all ages.

  • Reviewed last on: 10/3/2008
  • Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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