Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Epithelial coccygeal passage

Medical expert of the article

Surgeon, colorectal surgeon
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

A pilonidal sinus, also known as a pilonidal sinus or pilonidal canal, is an abnormality in the skin that can occur in some people, usually around the sacrum (sacrum bone) or nearby areas. This tract or canal is a small opening in the skin that can contain hair and other material and can sometimes cause problems.

The main characteristics of the epithelial coccygeal passage include:

  1. Hole in the skin: The pilonidal sinus may appear as a small hole in the skin, often located in the sacrum area or between the buttocks.
  2. Hair Inclusion: Hair or other material may be present in this tract and may become clogged and cause inflammation.
  3. Infections and abscesses: The pilonidal sinus can sometimes become infected, causing abscesses (collections of pus) and inflammation. This can cause pain, swelling, redness, and drainage of pus.
  4. Discomfort and pain: People with this abnormality may experience occasional discomfort or pain in the sacrum area.

Treatment for pilonidal sinusitis usually depends on symptoms and complications. Small, non-problematic tracts may not require treatment and can be monitored. In the case of infection or abscess, treatment may be required, including incision and drainage of the abscess, and antibiotics.

In some cases, surgical removal of the epithelial pilonidal sinus may be necessary, especially if it becomes a chronic problem and often causes complications. Surgery may involve removing the canal and surrounding tissue to prevent recurrence. Treatment and the decision to have surgery should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

trusted-source[ 1 ], [ 2 ], [ 3 ], [ 4 ], [ 5 ]

Causes epithelial coccygeal passage

The causes of pilonidal sinusitis are not always fully understood, but it is believed that it may be related to several factors. Some possible causes include:

  1. Congenital factors: Some people may have a deeper skin fold or other structural features in the sacral area that may contribute to the development of pilonidal sinusitis over time.
  2. Friction and pressure: Constant friction and pressure in the sacral area, such as from repeated sitting or physical activity, can irritate the skin and create a pathway for ingrown hairs or other materials to enter.
  3. Ingrown Hairs: Hair that penetrates the skin in the sacral area can cause inflammation and irritation, which can lead to the formation of a pilonidal sinus.
  4. Infections: Infections in the sacral area, such as folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicle), can also contribute to the development of pilonidal sinusitis.
  5. Genetic factors: Hereditary factors may play a role in predisposing one to develop pilonidal sinusitis.

Pilonidal sinusitis most often develops in young adults and can present in a variety of ways, from asymptomatic to infected abscesses and pain. It is important to note that many people with this condition do not experience problems and do not require treatment, while others may require medical intervention, especially if an infection or abscess develops.

Symptoms epithelial coccygeal passage

The symptoms of pilonidal sinusitis can vary from person to person and can range from subtle to painful and inflamed. Some of the possible symptoms of this condition include:

  1. Pain and discomfort: Pilonidal sinusitis may present as pain or discomfort in the sacrum. The pain may be aching, throbbing, or a sharp pain attack.
  2. Redness and swelling: The area around the tailbone may be red and swollen, especially if there is an infection.
  3. Purulent drainage: In some cases, the pilonidal sinus may become infected and may begin to discharge pus or mixed purulent discharge.
  4. Mucus or blood: In some cases, there may be discharge of mucus or blood from the pilonidal sinus.
  5. Tingling or itching: Some patients may experience itching, burning, or tingling in the tailbone area.
  6. Pain when sitting or moving: Pain may increase with sitting, walking, or movement in the sacral area.
  7. Infectious symptoms: When the pilonidal sinus is infected, infectious symptoms such as fever, chills, and general malaise may occur.

Symptoms may be temporary and come and go, especially if the pilonidal sinus becomes inflamed or infected. In some people, the epithelial pilonidal sinus may remain asymptomatic and cause no problems.

Inflammation of the epithelial coccygeal passage

Inflammation of the pilonidal sinus (or cyst) can cause discomfort, pain, and complications. This condition is often associated with infection and may require medical intervention. Here are some of the symptoms and treatments for an inflamed pilonidal sinus:

Symptoms of an inflamed coccygeal passage:

  1. Pain: Inflammation is usually accompanied by pain in the coccyx area. The pain may be aching, sharp or throbbing.
  2. Redness and swelling: The area around the tailbone may be inflamed, red, and swollen.
  3. Purulent drainage: Inflammation may cause pus or a mixture of pus and blood to drain from the opening or outlet of the pilonidal sinus.
  4. Fever and general malaise: When the pilonidal sinus is infected and inflamed, infectious symptoms such as fever, chills and general malaise may occur.

Treatment of inflamed coccygeal passage:

  1. Antibiotics: If there are signs of infection (such as purulent drainage or fever), your doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection.
  2. Abscess Drainage: If an abscess (collection of pus) has formed, it may need to be cut open and drained to remove the pus-filled contents.
  3. Antibacterial ointments: Your doctor may also recommend using antibacterial ointments to treat the wound.
  4. Hospital treatment: In some cases with severe inflammation and complications, hospitalization may be required for more intensive treatment and observation.
  5. Surgical treatment: Once the inflammation and infection have subsided, surgical removal of the pilonidal sinus may be necessary to prevent recurrence. This may be done at a later stage after the acute infection has resolved.

Treatment of an inflamed coccygeal passage should be carried out under the supervision of a medical specialist.

Stages

The stages of this condition can vary depending on the severity of the process and include the following:

  1. Subclinical stage: At this stage, changes in the pilonidal tract epithelium may be minimal and not cause symptoms. This is usually discovered during a medical examination, such as a colonoscopy procedure.
  2. Clinical stage: At this stage, the patient may experience symptoms such as itching, discomfort, pain or burning in the coccyx area (perianal region). Symptoms such as bleeding after defecation may occur, especially with difficult or strained stool. Inflammatory changes and cracks in the coccyx area may appear at this stage.
  3. Complication stage: If the epithelial coccygeal passage is not treated or progresses, complications may occur, such as the formation of abscesses (pus accumulations), furuncles (purulent infiltrates), anal fissures, hemorrhoids and other diseases of the coccyx and surrounding tissue. These complications may cause pain and require additional treatment.

Complications and consequences

Pilonidal sinus can be associated with various complications, especially if it becomes infected and is not properly cared for. Some of the possible complications include:

  1. Infection: One of the most common complications is infection. An infected pilonidal sinus can lead to the formation of an abscess (collection of pus), which causes pain and discomfort.
  2. Abscess: If the infection is left untreated, it can lead to an abscess, which is a more serious complication. An abscess requires incision and drainage, as well as antibiotics.
  3. Fistula: In rare cases, an infected pilonidal sinus can lead to the formation of a fistula, which is an abnormal opening or passage between the pilonidal sinus and the surrounding tissue.
  4. Recurrence: Even after successful treatment and removal of the pilonidal sinus, there is a risk of its recurrence. This may require additional treatment.
  5. Pain and discomfort: Swelling, inflammation, and abscess formation can cause severe pain and discomfort.
  6. Burns from treatment: If laser removal or other surgical treatments are not used correctly, it can result in burns to the skin around the tailbone.
  7. Persistent pain: Some patients may experience persistent pain and discomfort after treatment.

To prevent complications, it is important to see a doctor at the first sign of pilonidal sinusitis and receive appropriate treatment.

Recurrence of the epithelial pilonidal cyst means that the cyst has recurred or returned after treatment. Recurrences can be caused by a variety of factors, including incomplete removal of the cyst, remaining infectious material, or inadequate post-treatment precautions.

In case of recurrence of epithelial pilonidal sinusitis, the following steps can be taken:

  1. Revision surgery: If the cyst comes back, you may need to have another surgical removal. Your doctor can try to remove all of the infected tissue more thoroughly and create better conditions for healing.
  2. Advanced surgery: In some cases, your doctor may recommend more radical surgery, such as excision (complete removal) of the tailbone area, to prevent future recurrences.
  3. Improved care and hygiene: Following surgical removal of the cyst, it is important to maintain strict hygiene measures to prevent inflammation and infection in the coccyx area. Regular washing and cleaning of the area, as well as avoiding trauma to the area, can help prevent recurrence.
  4. Taking antibiotics: Your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to fight the infection and prevent recurrence.

Diagnostics epithelial coccygeal passage

Diagnosis of pilonidal sinusitis usually begins with a physical examination and discussion of the patient's symptoms. The doctor may ask you a series of questions related to your medical history and symptoms. The following methods may be used to more accurately diagnose and evaluate the condition:

  1. Physical examination: Your doctor may perform a physical examination of the sacrum and tailbone area to determine if there is any inflammation, swelling, redness, pain, or an open hole.
  2. Palpation: Your doctor may feel the tailbone area to determine if there is an abscess (collection of pus) or cyst.
  3. Visual inspection: Sometimes a visual inspection using a special light may be helpful in assessing the pilonidal sinus.
  4. Instrumental methods: The following instrumental methods can be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the condition of the coccygeal passage:
    • Ultrasound (US): An ultrasound can help visualize structures and changes in the coccyx area.
    • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI can provide more detailed images of the sacrum and coccyx area.
  5. Sputum culture: If there are signs of infection, your doctor may take a swab or sample of discharge from the pilonidal sinus for laboratory testing to determine the type of bacteria or microorganism causing the infection.

The diagnosis of epithelial coccygeal tract can be established on the basis of the results of physical examination and instrumental methods, as well as on the basis of clinical symptoms.

trusted-source[ 6 ], [ 7 ], [ 8 ], [ 9 ], [ 10 ]

Treatment epithelial coccygeal passage

Treatment for pilonidal sinus disease depends on the symptoms and complications. In some cases, a small, uncomplicated pilonidal sinus may not require active treatment and may be left under the care of a physician. Here are some of the treatments and approaches that may be used:

  1. Conservative treatment:

    • Hygiene and care: Regular hygiene of the tailbone area, including washing and drying after urination and bowel movements, can help prevent infection and irritation.
    • Using hot compresses: Hot compresses can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
  2. Treatment of infection and abscess:

    • Antibiotics: If your pilonidal sinus is infected, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection.
    • Abscess Drainage: If an abscess (collection of pus) has formed, it may need to be cut open and drained to remove the pus.
  3. Surgical treatment:

    • Pilonidalectomy: In cases of recurring or chronic problems, especially if the pilonidal tract becomes a source of pain and infection, surgical removal (pilonidal tract extraction) may be necessary. This is a procedure performed by a surgeon and can be done in a clinic or hospital.
  4. Laser treatment or other methods: Some cases may be treated using laser or other non-invasive methods to remove the pilonidal sinus.

Pilonidal cystectomy (or surgical extirpation) may be recommended in cases where the pilonidal cyst is causing chronic pain, infection, abscesses, or other complications, and conservative treatments have not produced the desired effect. The procedure is performed by a surgeon and can be done in a hospital or surgical clinic. Here's how pilonidal cystectomy is performed:

  1. Patient preparation: Before surgery, the patient usually undergoes preoperative preparation, including anesthesia and fasting.
  2. Anesthesia: During the procedure, anesthesia is used to ensure that there is no pain. This may be local, regional or general anesthesia depending on the specific circumstances and the patient's preference.
  3. Access to the coccygeal passage: The surgeon makes an incision in the sacrum to access the coccygeal passage. The size and location of the incision may vary.
  4. Extirpation of the tract: The surgeon removes the pilonidal sinus and all associated tissue. It is important to remove all abnormalities to prevent recurrence.
  5. Drainage and stitches: If there was an infection or abscess, the surgeon may drain the wound and then use stitches to heal the wound.
  6. Post-procedure recovery: The patient may be given wound care instructions and post-treatment care recommendations. This includes regular dressing changes, antibiotics (if prescribed), and avoiding physical activity on the sacral area during the early recovery period.

The pilonidal sinus procedure is usually quite effective in preventing recurrence and eliminating the pain and problems associated with the condition. Recovery time can vary, but in most cases, patients can return to daily activities within a few weeks of surgery.

Post-operative care

Following pilonidal sinus surgery, following proper post-operative care and instructions is important for a successful recovery. Here are some general recommendations and tips after surgery:

  1. Follow your doctor's instructions: It is important to follow all instructions given to you by your surgeon or health care professional. This includes medication timing, wound care, and any other recommendations.
  2. Wound care: Proper wound care can help prevent infection and speed healing. You may be advised to change dressings regularly and treat the wound with antiseptics. Follow your doctor's instructions for wound care.
  3. Avoid physical activity: Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and long periods of sitting for the first few weeks after surgery. Your doctor may give you specific recommendations regarding restrictions.
  4. Diet: You may be given dietary recommendations after surgery. Make sure you follow these recommendations.
  5. Avoid smoking: Smoking can slow down the wound healing process. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about quitting or cutting down on smoking.
  6. Maintain hygiene: Regularly washing and drying the sacral area after urination and bowel movements will help prevent infection and irritation.
  7. Keep follow-up appointments: You may have follow-up visits with your doctor to assess your healing and remove any stitches, if any.
  8. Tell your doctor about any complications: If you have signs of infection (redness, pus, fever), pain, swelling, or other unusual symptoms, tell your doctor right away.

Laser removal of the epithelial coccygeal passage

This is one of the surgical treatments for this condition. The laser removal procedure can have a number of benefits, such as a lower risk of bleeding and infection, faster healing, and a shorter recovery period. Here's how laser removal typically occurs:

  1. Patient Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient undergoes preoperative preparation, including anesthesia if necessary.
  2. Anesthesia: Local or regional anesthesia is used during the procedure to ensure the area is painless.
  3. Laser removal: The surgeon uses laser equipment to remove the epithelial coccygeal passage. The laser allows for precise removal of the affected tissue and simultaneously coagulates the vessels, which reduces the risk of bleeding.
  4. Drainage and stitches: If needed, your surgeon may drain the abscess (collection of pus) and use stitches to close the wound.
  5. Post-procedure recovery: Following the procedure, the patient may be given wound care instructions and aftercare recommendations. This may include regular dressing changes, antibiotics (if prescribed), and activity restrictions.

The benefits of laser removal include a smaller incision, less pain, less bleeding and infection, and a faster recovery compared to some other surgical removal methods. However, the treatment method must be chosen by a doctor based on the individual patient and the nature of the disease.

Treatment at home without surgery

Although many cases of pilonidal cysts may require surgery to remove the cyst and its contents, some smaller or uncomplicated cases may be successfully managed without surgery. Here are some alternative treatments:

  1. Antiseptic and antibiotic treatment: If you have early signs of a pilonidal cyst, such as inflammation or redness in the tailbone area, your doctor may prescribe antiseptic ointments or antibiotics to fight infection and inflammation.
  2. Hygiene measures: Regular and gentle washing and cleaning of the tailbone area can help prevent inflammation and infection. Avoid injury and pressure on the area.
  3. Hot compresses: Applying warm compresses to the tailbone area may help relieve discomfort and promote drainage of the maturing cyst.
  4. Medical massage: Your doctor may perform a medical massage on the tailbone area to help drain the cyst and reduce inflammation.
  5. Emergency excision: In some cases, if you have a small pilonidal cyst, your doctor may perform a minor procedure to remove it in the office without general anesthesia.

However, it is important to understand that these methods may only be effective for small and uncomplicated cysts. If you have a large or complicated pilonidal cyst, surgical removal will likely be necessary. Surgery can prevent recurrence and serious complications.

Clinical guidelines

Clinical recommendations for pilonidal sinusitis may vary depending on the specific circumstances, the degree of inflammation, and the presence of complications. However, here are some general guidelines that may be helpful:

  1. Consult a doctor: If you have symptoms or suspect a coccygeal cyst, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation and diagnosis. The doctor will perform a physical examination and may order additional tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to obtain a more accurate diagnosis.
  2. Good hygiene: Maintain good hygiene in the sacral area. Wash and dry the area regularly after urinating and defecating. This will help prevent infections and irritation.
  3. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting: Try to avoid prolonged periods of sitting or take regular breaks to reduce pressure on the sacral area.
  4. Avoid Injuries: Try to avoid injury and rubbing of the sacral area. This includes being careful when playing sports or being active.
  5. Follow your doctor's instructions: If you have been offered surgery, discuss all your questions with your doctor and prepare for the surgery according to his or her instructions. Follow all post-operative care instructions.
  6. Follow-up visits: After treatment, including surgery, visit your doctor regularly for follow-up visits. This will help monitor the healing process and identify any complications early.
  7. Stop smoking: If you smoke, talk to your doctor about stopping or cutting down on your habit. Smoking can slow down the healing process.
  8. Take care of your health: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and moderate physical activity.

It is important to note that treatment of epithelial pilonidal sinus should be done under the supervision and guidance of a physician or surgeon. Treatment will depend on the specific circumstances, the degree of inflammation and infection, and the patient's history and symptoms.

Forecast

The prognosis for pilonidal sinusitis depends on several factors, including the degree of inflammation, the presence of complications, and the effectiveness of treatment. In most cases, with proper treatment and care, the prognosis is usually good.

Here are some important points to consider:

  1. Conservative treatment: If the pilonidal sinus is small, uncomplicated, and not infected, conservative treatment such as improved hygiene and hot compresses may help prevent complications and relieve symptoms.
  2. Treatment of infection: In case of an infected pilonidal sinus, it is important to start antibiotic treatment and, if necessary, drain the abscess. Appropriate treatment of the infection usually leads to recovery.
  3. Surgery: If the pilonidal sinus becomes a chronic or recurring problem, surgical removal of the pilonidal sinus (extirpation) may be necessary. Surgery usually results in a complete cure, but recovery may take time.
  4. Post-procedure recovery: It is important to follow your doctor's instructions after treatment. This may include wound care, taking antibiotics if prescribed, and preventing re-injury to the tailbone area.

The prognosis may also depend on the patient's overall health, the presence of other medical problems, and compliance with aftercare and aftercare recommendations.


The iLive portal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
The information published on the portal is for reference only and should not be used without consulting a specialist.
Carefully read the rules and policies of the site. You can also contact us!

Copyright © 2011 - 2025 iLive. All rights reserved.