ABSCESS

An abscess is a localized pocket of infection, which contains pus. A connective tissue capsule that walls off the pocket from the rest of the body surrounds these infected areas. Pus, more properly called purulent exudate, is composed of white blood cells, bacteria, broken down tissue and fluid derived from serum.

Abscesses most often result from puncture wounds such as cat or dog bites or foreign bodies such as grass awns or cactus quills. When the tooth or the plant material breaks the skin, bacteria is deposited beneath the skin. The small skin wound quickly heals trapping the bacteria within the deeper tissues where it proliferates and attracts white blood cells and other immune system components. In an attempt to neutralize the bacteria, the white blood cells degranulate releasing enzymes that kill bacteria and destroy surrounding tissues. This process leads to the formation of exudate or pus.

An abscess in the subcutaneous tissues beneath the skin appears as a warm, red and swollen area that is painful when touched. Abscesses often produce high fever, which causes animals to be lethargic and anorexic.

Abscesses often require both surgical and medical treatment. Treatment specifics will depend upon location, size and stage of development of the abscess. Prompt medical attention is important since toxins produced by bacteria and enzymes produced to neutralize the bacteria may have negative effects on other parts of the body (brain, kidneys and liver).

All abscesses benefit from treatment with hot packs. The easiest way to hot pack an abscess is to microwave a commercially available sports injury hot pack until it is warm. Wrap the pack in a warm wet wash cloth and apply to the affected area twice per day for 10 to 15 minutes.