Pilonidal sinus disease: Case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Pilonidal sinus disease is a chronic granulomatous condition resulting from the presence of hair in the subcutaneous tissues. Its treatment ranges from simple hygiene measures to complex surgical interventions depending on the mode of presentation. We present a 59-year-old man who had a history of re-current swelling in the left gluteal region of about 2 years duration. After a diagnosis was made of pilonidal sinus disease, he had open surgery with laying open of the sinus and exploration with a probe in the operating room under local anesthesia. The sinus measured about 4 cm. He had drainage of the sinus cavity with curettage of the floor of the sinus. Pilonidal sinus disease may not be as uncommon in our setting as previously thought. A high index of suspicion should be entertained based on the characteristic location and typical presentation of the condition. 

Keywords: pilonidal sinus; pilonidal disease; pilonidal cavity