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Skin abscess - Symptom

Alternative Names

Abscess - skin; Cutaneous abscess; Subcutaneous abscess

Symptoms:

  • Fever or chills, in some cases
  • Local swelling, hardening of tissue (induration)
  • Skin lesion
    • Open or closed sore, domed nodule
    • Red
    • May drain fluid
  • Tender and warm affected area

Signs and tests:

Your doctor can diagnose the condition based on the appearance of the area. A culture or examination of any drainage from the lesion may help identify what organism is causing it.

  • 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.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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