The word "coccygeal fistula" is spelled with a "coccy-" prefix, which refers to the tailbone and is pronounced /ˈkɒksi/. The "-geal" suffix means pertaining to the throat, and is pronounced /dʒiːl/. Finally, "fistula" refers to an abnormal connection between two body parts, and is pronounced /ˈfɪstjʊlə/. Therefore, the correct pronunciation of "coccygeal fistula" is /ˌkɒksiːˈdʒiːəl ˈfɪstjʊlə/. This condition can be treated surgically and patients usually recover fully after the operation.
Coccygeal fistula, also known as a pilonidal cyst or sinus, is a medical condition characterized by the development of a small abnormal passageway or tunnel in the coccygeal or sacrococcygeal region of the body. It typically occurs near the tailbone, which is the small, triangular bone located at the base of the spine.
This condition is usually caused by the accumulation of debris, hair, or dead skin cells in the hair follicles in the area, leading to inflammation, infection, and the development of a cyst. Over time, the cyst may become painful and develop into a fistula, creating a visible opening or sinus that can ooze fluid or pus. Common symptoms of a coccygeal fistula include discomfort, tenderness, redness, swelling, and drainage of fluids or blood from the affected area.
Coccygeal fistulas often require medical intervention, such as antibiotics to treat the infection or surgical removal of the cyst. In some cases, the fistula may need to be drained to relieve the pressure and prevent further infection. Post-operative care usually includes maintaining proper wound hygiene, keeping the area clean and dry, and avoiding prolonged sitting or pressure on the coccyx.
If left untreated or recurrent, coccygeal fistulas can lead to chronic pain, abscess formation, or the development of sinus tracts. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in preventing complications and promoting a successful recovery.
A fistulous opening of a dermoid cyst in the coccygeal region.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "coccygeal fistula" is composed of two primary parts - "coccygeal" and "fistula":
1. Coccygeal: The word "coccygeal" is derived from the Greek word "kokkux", meaning "cuckoo" or "cuckoo's beak". It refers to the coccyx, which is a small triangular bone at the base of the spine, resembling the beak of a cuckoo. In medical terminology, "coccygeal" is used to describe something related to or located in the coccyx region.
2. Fistula: The term "fistula" originates from the Latin word "fistula", meaning "pipe" or "tube". It refers to an abnormal passage or communication between two body structures that are not typically connected.