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Pilonidal sinus of the umbilicus
Abstract:
Only 15 cases of pilonidal sinus of the umbilicus have so far been reported. A 16th case is described; it supports the theory of acquired origin of the disease. The case fulfilled the criterion for pilonidal sinus--the 36-year-old man had a hair in the infected umbilical cyst. The cyst and umbilicus were excised. The umbilicus was not reconstructed because of the danger of recurrence. It is recommended that a careful search be carried out for hair in all patients with an infected umbilicus.
Insights
This case report details a rare instance of umbilical pilonidal sinus, supporting its acquired origin. The study highlights the importance of searching for hair in infected umbilical cysts.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Surgery
- Dermatology
Background:
- Pilonidal sinus typically affects the sacrococcygeal region.
- Umbilical pilonidal sinus is an extremely rare condition, with only 15 previous cases reported.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old male presented with an infected umbilical cyst.
- A hair was found within the infected umbilical cyst, a key diagnostic criterion for pilonidal sinus.
Findings:
- The 16th reported case of pilonidal sinus of the umbilicus was successfully treated by excision of the cyst and umbilicus.
- The umbilicus was not reconstructed due to the risk of recurrence.
Implications:
- This case supports the theory that umbilical pilonidal sinus is acquired, likely due to foreign bodies like hair.
- Clinicians should consider searching for hair in all cases of infected umbilical cysts to aid diagnosis and management of this rare condition.