Difference Between Abscess and Cyst

Introduction

Abscess and cyst are two common forms of fluid-filled masses that can develop in the body, often causing concern and discomfort. While they may share similarities, understanding their differences is essential for management. This article elaborates on the types and differences between abscesses and cysts.

What Is an Abscess?

The localized collection of pus within the tissue, confined space, or organ in the body is said to be an abscess. Pus is a fluid that consists of bacteria, dead cells, and tissue debris with a thick consistency. Abscess typically forms as a result of inflammation and infection.

What Is a Cyst?

A closed sac or pouch-like structure that contains fluid, semisolid thing, or gas is considered a cyst. Cysts can develop in various parts and can be caused by several factors.

What Are the Types of Abscesses?

Abscesses can be classified based on their location and underlying cause. Some of the common types of abscesses include

• Skin Abscesses: These occur beneath the skin and often result from bacterial infection in oil glands or hair follicles. Skin abscesses can develop anywhere in the body and are said to be furuncles or boils when they affect a single hair follicle and carbuncles when they affect multiple hair follicles.

• Dental Abscesses: These abscesses form around the roots of the teeth or in the gum and are caused by untreated tooth cavities or any other gum disease. Dental abscesses are extremely painful.

• Perianal Abscess: These abscesses develop near the anus. This often occurs as a result of infection in the glands around the rectum. It can cause pain, redness, swelling, and fever.

• Peritonsillar Abscess: These abscesses form in the tissues around the tonsils. It occurs as a result of untreated tonsillitis. It can cause severe throat pain, swelling of the neck, and difficulty swallowing.

• Liver Abscess: It can develop as a result of bacterial infection that occurs due to spread from other infection sites or through the bloodstream. It can cause jaundice, fever, abdominal pain, and other symptoms of liver dysfunction.

• Brain Abscess: These abscesses are rare. It occurs as a result of bacterial and fungal infections in brain tissue.

• Intra-Abdominal Abscess: These abscesses form within the abdominal cavity. It occurs as a complication of diverticulitis, appendicitis, or perforated bowel.

What Are the Types of Cysts?

Some of the common types of cysts are

• Epidermoid Cyst: These cysts develop beneath the skin and are filled with keratin. Keratin is a protein found in skin cells. Epidermoid cyst arises from hair follicles.

• Ovarian Cysts: These cysts form in or on the ovaries and can develop as a result of pregnancy, menstrual cycle, and other medical conditions. Many ovarian cysts are functional cysts which means they resolve on their own without treatment.

• Renal Cysts: These cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the kidneys. They are common and often, especially in older adults.

• Dermoid Cyst: These cysts are congenital cysts that can develop in various parts of the body, including testes, ovaries, and midline structures like the nasal cavity, spine, and skull.

• Breast Cysts: These cysts are fluid-filled and develop in the breast tissue. They are common in women of reproductive age and may fluctuate in size with the menstrual cycle.

• Ganglion Cysts: These cysts are noncancerous lumps that develop along the joints or tendons of ankles, wrists, hands, or feet.

• Chalazion: It is a type of cyst that develops within the eyelid as a result of blocked oil glands.

• Pilonidal Cysts: These cysts develop in the skin near the coccyx and are often the result of ingrown hairs or trauma to the area.

What Are the Similar Symptoms of Abscess and Cyst?

Though there are distinct differences between abscesses and cysts, they share some similar symptoms. Some similar symptoms include

• Pain: Abscess and cysts can be painful, especially when they become infected or inflamed. The pain may vary in intensity based on the location and size of the cyst and abscess.

• Swelling: Both abscesses and cysts can cause noticeable swelling in the affected area. This swelling often forms due to the accumulation of pus or fluid in the tissues.

• Warmth: The affected area may feel warm to touch due to the inflammatory response triggered by both abscess and cyst.

• Redness: Inflammation associated with abscesses and cysts can lead to redness in the surrounding skin. This redness may be localized to the immediate area of the cyst or abscess.

• Tenderness: Abscesses and cysts can cause sensitivity or tenderness when pressure is applied to the area. This tenderness may range from mild to severe discomfort and pain.

• Fever: In some cases, both abscess and cyst may be accompanied by fever, especially if there is an underlying infection.

What Are the Key Differences Between Abscess and Cyst?

The key differences between abscesses and cysts lie in their causes, compositions, symptoms, and treatments.

Composition:

• Abscess contains pus, which is the combination of dead white blood cells, tissue debris, and bacteria.

• The cyst contains fluid, semisolid material, or gas.

Causes:

• An abscess is primarily caused by bacterial infections such as streptococcus aureus. It often results from cuts, wounds, or inflammatory conditions.

• Cysts can form due to several reasons, including developmental abnormalities, blockage of glands or ducts, trauma, chronic inflammation, or hormonal imbalances.

Symptoms:

• Abscess typically presents with redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and fever. Pus or fluid drainage may also occur.

• Cyst may manifest as a palpable bump or lump beneath the skin with or without symptoms. Tenderness, pain, redness, fluid drainage, and swelling may occur if the cyst becomes inflamed or infected.

Treatment:

• Treatment for abscess usually involves antibiotics to address the bacterial infection and drainage to move out the pus and relieve pressure. Surgical treatment is necessary for deeper and larger abscesses.

• Treatment for cysts varies depending on the location, size, and symptoms. Medications, observation, drainage, or surgical intervention may be recommended.

Conclusion

Though abscesses and cysts may share some similarities, they are distinct entities with differences in composition, symptoms, causes, and treatment approach. Proper diagnosis by healthcare providers is important for accurate treatment of individual needs. Reaching out to healthcare professionals may be beneficial.