Pilonidal disease is a condition that affects the natal cleft (area between the buttocks above the anus). It occurs when hair burrows beneath the skin causing a cavity or a tract. Hair often becomes trapped and it may cause an infection. Infection may turn into an abscess which causes pain and swelling. When an abscess occurs, the treatment is incision and drainage.
Other symptoms of pilonidal disease include pain, swelling and discharge. Recurrent abscess may occur.
Pilonidal disease usually affects teenagers and young adults. Surgical treatment is recommended if there is recurrent infection or abscess formation.