Abscessus (plural: abscessus) is a Latin term derived from the verb "abcedere" which means "to go away." In medical terminology, it refers to a localized collection of pus that forms within tissues of the body, typically as a result of an infection, trauma, or other pathological processes.
An abscess forms as a defensive response of the body to contain and eliminate an infection or foreign material. It is characterized by the accumulation of thick, yellowish-white pus, which consists of dead cells, tissue debris, and bacteria. The formation of an abscess is often accompanied by inflammation, redness, swelling, and localized pain.
Abscesses can develop in various areas of the body, such as the skin, organs, or deeper tissues. They can arise from different sources, including bacterial infections, foreign objects, blockages of ducts or glands, or even from underlying medical conditions like dental caries, appendicitis, or diverticulitis.
Treatment for an abscess usually involves draining the accumulated pus, either through surgical means or through the use of a needle or catheter. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to combat the bacterial infection. In some cases, abscesses may resolve on their own, but medical intervention is often necessary to prevent complications, such as spreading of the infection or damage to surrounding tissues.
Overall, abscessus refers to a localized infection characterized by the accumulation of pus within the body, which necessitates medical intervention for proper management and recovery.
