Nondiscrimination Policy Update

Boston Medical Center Health System complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency and primary language), religion, culture, physical or mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression. BMCHS provides free aids and services to people with disabilities and free language services to people whose primary language is not English.

To read our full Nondiscrimination Statement, click here.

Language

Pilonidal Cyst

A pilonidal cyst is a fluid-filled sac near the tailbone, usually at the top of the buttocks. They're caused by loose hair penetrating the skin and becoming embedded. In some cases, the cyst can become infected.

Symptoms

A pilonidal cyst itself may not cause any symptoms, but an infected cyst may lead to:

  • A swollen and painful area around the cyst
  • Pus or blood leaking from the cyst
  • An open area near the top of the buttocks

Treatments

To treat a pilonidal cyst, your doctor will drain the cyst. This can be done in an office visit.

If your cyst comes back, you may need surgery to remove it.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for a pilonidal cyst include:

  • Being a young adult male
  • Prolonged sitting
  • Friction, such as from tight clothing or cycling
  • Being overweight
  • Having thick body hair
  • Being inactive

Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

department

Colon and Rectal Surgery

BMC’s colorectal surgeons offer cutting-edge surgical treatments for conditions that affect the colon, rectum, and anus, in coordinating with other specialists.