Ultrasound-Based Differentiation of Esthetic Abscess: Insights From Clinical Practice

Abscesses are a common esthetic procedure complication that can lead to disfigurement and systemic complications. Accurately identifying the type of abscess is essential for early and appropriate treatment. In this context, the ultrasound (US) has become a pivotal tool for diagnosing and managing abscesses when combined with clinical and laboratory assessment. However, many professionals in the field still have limited knowledge of the subject, especially regarding abscess differentiation. Given this scenario, this article aims to address the US-standard to distinguish between common bacterial, nontuberculous mycobacterial, and sterile abscesses, highlighting the importance of integrating clinical presentation and laboratory findings for accurate differentiation.