What Are The Causes Of Abscess & Are They Contagious?

What is skin abscess?

A boil, also known as a skin abscess, is a lump that forms within or beneath the top layer of skin. This lump is frequently filled with pus or a clear liquid. A bacterial infection is usually to blame.

Any region of the body might develop a skin abscess. Abscesses, on the other hand, are most usually found on the back, face, breast, or buttocks. Skin abscesses can also develop in regions where there is a lot of hair growth, such as the underarms or the genital.

What are the common causes of a skin abscess?

1. Bacteria

The most prevalent bacterial cause of cutaneous abscesses is Staphylococcus aureus. A skin abscess can develop as a result of a bacterial infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria entering the body through a hair follicle or a punctured or broken skin lesion.

2. Hair follicles that have become infected

Folliculitis, or infection of the hair follicles, can lead to abscesses in the follicle. If the hair within the follicle is locked and unable to break through the skin, as can happen after shaving, the follicle can get infected.

Are they contagious?

Boils are not contagious on their own. However, if the illness inside a boil is caused by the staph bacteria, it might be contagious.

If you or someone close to you has a boil that is actively seeping puss, you should cover it with a clean bandage or persuade them to do so.

Also Read: Plaque In Your Arteries? Know What Causes It