Definition for pilonidal cyst

A pilonidal cyst (from Latin meaning 'hair nest') is a blanket term for any type of skin infection near the tailbone. more

A pilonidal cyst (from Latin meaning 'hair nest') is a blanket term for any type of skin infection near the tailbone. The term "pilonidal cyst" can be misleading, as a majority of the time, this is actually an abscess. These are normally painful, occur somewhat more often in men than in women (though, this is debatable), and normally happen in early adulthood (to the 30's). Although usually found near the tailbone, this painful condition can be found rarely in several other places, including the navel and armpit. A traumatic event is not believed to cause a pilonidal cyst, such an event that has been known to inflame an existing cyst. less