Abscess as a complication of sinusitis | Causes of an abscess

Abscess as a complication of sinusitis

An abscess can occur as a complication of sinusitis (inflammation of the paranasal sinuses). The paranasal sinuses are air-filled cavities in the bones of the skull and are often inflamed in the course of a flu-like infection. A “carry-over” of the infection, nasal polyps or a curved nasal septum means that the sinuses are no longer sufficiently ventilated, resulting in chronic sinusitis. Due to the ongoing inflammation, purulent abscesses can form in the skull bone. There is a high risk that the infection will spread to the nearby orbit or brain, causing permanent damage to the optic nerve and brain.

What is a syringe abscess?

A syringe abscess is caused by an injection. Through a non-sterile syringe, bacteria get under the skin with the needle and multiply there. As the infected tissue melts during the inflammatory reaction, pus forms and an abscess develops at the injection site.

Syringe abscesses can occur anywhere where syringes are inserted, i.e. mainly on the upper arm, abdomen, buttocks and thighs. Often a small bruise forms at the injection site after the injection, which swells and hurts. A small lump can be felt under the skin, this is the encapsulated abscess cavity.

Syringe abscesses often occur in drug addicts who use unclean cutlery for injection. They can also occur if the doctor has administered a vaccination. It is difficult to prove that the abscess was really caused by a contaminated needle after treatment by the doctor and not by unhygienic conditions during care afterwards.

If a syringe abscess is suspected, patients should consult a dermatologist who can easily diagnose the abscess. The doctor will prescribe antibiotic medication, which will help the abscess heal quickly.