Painful Skin Abscess Treated With Incision and Drainage in a 28-Year-Old Male
Village Dermatology | Katy & Houston, Texas
Overview
A 28-year-old male presented to Village Dermatology with a painful skin infection on the back of his left thigh. The area had become increasingly tender and inflamed over the course of several days despite oral antibiotic therapy, prompting further evaluation and treatment.
This case highlights the importance of timely incision and drainage (I&D) for skin abscesses that do not adequately respond to antibiotics alone.
Clinical Evaluation
Focused examination of the left posterior thigh revealed a localized, inflamed lesion consistent with a cutaneous abscess. The patient was otherwise healthy, well-appearing, and in no acute distress.
Findings were concerning for a collection of pus beneath the skin, a condition that often requires procedural intervention to achieve full resolution.
Diagnosis: Skin Abscess
The lesion was diagnosed as a skin abscess, a localized bacterial infection that forms a pocket of purulent material. Abscesses commonly cause:
Pain and tenderness
Redness and warmth
Swelling and pressure
Because abscesses can be caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, culture and drainage are often necessary for effective treatment.
Treatment Plan
Given the patient’s persistent pain and incomplete response to antibiotics, incision and drainage was recommended and performed during the visit.
Treatment included:
Incision and drainage of the abscess under local anesthesia
Expression of purulent contents
Application of a pressure dressing
Bacterial culture to guide ongoing treatment
The procedure was medically necessary due to infection, pain, redness, and failure of conservative measures.
Post-Procedure Care & Counseling
The patient was counseled on:
Proper wound care and dressing changes
Use of antibacterial cleansers such as benzoyl peroxide or chlorhexidine to reduce bacterial load
The importance of completing prescribed antibiotics
Monitoring for warning signs such as fever, chills, worsening pain, or spreading redness
Warm compresses were also recommended to promote continued drainage and healing.
Follow-Up Plan
The patient was instructed to follow up if:
The abscess does not improve
Symptoms worsen
Systemic signs of infection develop
Prompt follow-up ensures proper healing and reduces the risk of recurrence.
Expert Abscess Treatment in Katy & Houston
Skin abscesses can become serious if not treated appropriately. At Village Dermatology, we provide same-day evaluation and procedural care, including incision and drainage, to relieve pain and prevent complications.
If you have a painful, swollen skin infection, our dermatology team in Katy and Houston, Texas is here to help.
