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abscess
(abīses)
a localized collection of pus in a cavity formed by the disintegration of tissue, usually caused by microorganisms that invade the tissues, such as through
a small wound or break in the skin. An abscess is a natural defense mechanism in which the body attempts to localize an infection
and wall off the microorganisms so that they cannot spread throughout the body. As the microorganisms destroy tissue, an increased
supply of blood is rushed to the area. The cells, bacteria, and dead tissue accumulate to form a clump of cream-colored liquid
called pus; as pus accumulates, adjacent swollen, inflamed tissue presses against the nerves and causes pain. The concentration of blood
in the area causes redness. An abscess sometimes “comes to a head” by itself and breaks through the skin or other tissues,
allowing the pus to drain.
Cross section of abscess.
Abscesses of breast.
Copyright 2007. An Elsevier publication. All rights reserved.
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