Abscess in the groin: what it is, symptoms, causes and treatment

A groin Abscess is an infection at the root of the hair that causes symptoms such as a lump with pus in the groin that can grow over time, pain, increased local temperature, redness and sensitivity to touch, for example.

This type of infection is caused by bacteria, mainly Staphylococcus aureuswhich is naturally present in the skin, but can cause local inflammation due to poor hygiene, skin damage or the use of razors for shaving, for example.

In most cases, the boil in the groin disappears spontaneously without the need for treatment, however, to speed up the elimination of the Abscess, you can apply a compress with warm water to the area at least 3 times a day. In some cases, the dermatologist may also recommend the use of antibiotics.

Symptoms of a Abscess in the groin

The main symptoms of a Abscess in the groin are:

• Lump with pus in the groin, which may grow over time;
• Presence of a whitish-yellow spot on the seed;
• Pain or discomfort in the lump;
• Swelling and redness at the site;
• Increase in local temperature;
• Touch sensitivity.

Furthermore, in some cases, a low fever or swelling in the groin may also appear, for example.

A Abscess in the groin should not be confused with an inguinal hernia, which is a lump that also appears in the groin area, but which is due to the exit of part of the intestine through a weak point in the abdominal muscles. See more about inguinal hernia and how to treat it.

Therefore, it is important to consult a dermatologist or general practitioner whenever symptoms of a Abscess appear in the groin, so that the most appropriate treatment can be diagnosed and initiated.

How to confirm the diagnosis

The diagnosis of a boil in the groin is clinical, being made by a dermatologist or general practitioner through the assessment of symptoms, health history and physical examination, observing the characteristics of the lump in the groin.

Make an appointment with a dermatologist in the nearest region:

In some cases, the doctor may collect a small sample of the pus contained in the boil, to be analyzed in the laboratory, in order to identify the type of bacteria that is causing the infection and, thus, recommend the best antibiotic.

Possible causes

Abscess in the groin usually occur due to inflammation of the hair root, which is in most cases associated with bacterial infection. Staphylococcus aureuswhich can be found naturally in mucous membranes and skin.

Some factors may contribute to the development of groin Abscess, such as:

• Small wounds or lesions on the skin;
• Poor skin hygiene;
• Obesity;
• Diabetes;
• Weakened immune system.

Additionally, having skin-to-skin contact with a person infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus it also increases the risk of groin boils.

When there is infection and inflammation caused by this bacteria, the immune system is activated, resulting in the formation of pus and symptoms.

Obstruction of a sebaceous gland can also cause an infection and develop into an abscess there. See more about the causes of boils.

How the treatment is carried out

Treatment of a Abscess in the groin should be carried out under the guidance of a dermatologist or general practitioner, who may recommend the application of warm compresses, approximately 3 times a day, in addition to washing the area well with warm water and neutral soap. See also some options for home remedies for abscess.

The doctor may also recommend the use of analgesic or anti-inflammatory medications, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to relieve pain and discomfort.

Under no circumstances is it recommended to try to squeeze the boil, as this can worsen inflammation and infection, making it more difficult to treat.

In some cases, the doctor may recommend draining the abscess, which involves removing the pus, or using antibiotics in the form of ointments or tablets. Check out the main ointments for boils