Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 21, 2026

Transvaginal Mesh Insertion in the Ovine Model
Published on: July 27, 2017
Umbilical pilonidal sinus
Abstract:
A pilonidal sinus is a blind-end tract lined with granulation tissue, which leads to a cystic cavity lined with epithelial tissue. As the name suggests, these hair containing abscesses are usually found in the sacro-coccygeal region. However, they may also occasionally occur in the axilla, groin, inter-digital web, umbilicus, nose, inter-mammary areas, supra-pubic area, clitoris, prepuce, penis, occiput, and on the feet. Sinus is caused by the friction of the skin at the base of the spine, leading to the embedding of the hair beneath the surface. The hair forms small cavities or pits, which are in truth, enlarged hair follicles, which go on to become sinuses. Bacteria and debris enter this sterile area, producing local inflammation and formation of pus-filled abscesses. In chronic condition, the sinus becomes an open cavity, constantly draining small amounts of fluid. In this case report we present a case of umbilical pilonidal sinus in a young boy.
Insights
A pilonidal sinus is a hair-filled abscess typically found in the lower back. This case report highlights a rare occurrence of a pilonidal sinus in the umbilical region of a young boy.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- General Surgery
Background:
- Pilonidal sinus is a condition characterized by a tract lined with granulation tissue leading to a cystic cavity.
- Typically located in the sacro-coccygeal region, pilonidal sinuses can also manifest in other areas due to hair embedding beneath the skin.
Observation:
- The formation of sinuses is initiated by friction, causing hair to embed and form small cavities or pits.
- These cavities can enlarge into sinuses, becoming susceptible to bacterial and debris entry, leading to inflammation and abscess formation.
Findings:
- The abstract describes a case report focusing on an umbilical pilonidal sinus in a young boy.
- This presentation is unusual, as pilonidal sinuses most commonly occur in the sacro-coccygeal area.
Implications:
- This case broadens the understanding of pilonidal sinus presentation and location.
- Highlights the importance of considering atypical locations for diagnosis and treatment.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Muscles of the Pelvic Floor and Perineum
Perineal Layer
The perineum is a diamond-shaped area below the pelvic diaphragm, divided into an anterior urogenital triangle that contains the external genitals and a posterior anal triangle housing the anus. The urogenital...
Large Intestine
The ileocecal sphincter, a mucous membrane fold, guards the opening from the ileum to the large intestine. This valve permits material from the small intestine to pass into the large intestine. Attached to the ileocecal valve is the cecum. This small pouch, approximately 6 cm long, has a twisted, coiled tube known as...
Spinal Nerves: Plexus II
The Lumbar Plexus
The lumbar plexus is situated within the lumbar region of the back and is primarily formed by the first four lumbar spinal nerves (L1 to L4). This plexus extends its branches into several nerves, including the...
Appendicitis
Abdominal Regions and Quadrants
The simpler quadrants approach, which is more commonly used in medicine, subdivides the cavity with one horizontal and one vertical line that intersects at the patient's umbilicus (navel). The four...
