Abscess
An abscess is a pocket of infection and pus that can form in organs, soft tissues, or the abdomen.
When to get help quickly: Urgent review is important if pain, swelling, fever, or redness is worsening, especially if the person is diabetic, immunocompromised, or looks very unwell.
Common symptoms
Symptoms often include a painful lump or swollen area, warmth, redness, fever, and sometimes leaking pus or feeling generally unwell.
When imaging helps
Imaging helps when the abscess may be deep, when doctors need to know its size and exact location, or when drainage is being considered.
What radiology does
Ultrasound, CT, or MRI can help show where the abscess is, how large it is, and whether image-guided drainage may help.
What usually happens next
Management often includes antibiotics and, in some cases, drainage or surgery depending on the location and severity.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.
Related scan guides
- Perianal MRI (for Anal Fistula and Abscess)A Perianal MRI is a detailed scan of the tissues around the anus. It maps anal fistulas and abscesses precisely, showing the surgeon exactly where the tracks run and how they relate to the sphincter muscles that control continence.
- CT AbdomenA CT Abdomen scan uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the abdominal organs including the liver, stomach, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, intestines, and blood vessels.
- CT CraniofacialA CT Craniofacial scan captures clear, 3D-like images of the bones in your face and skull. It is a critical tool for mapping out the intricate bones of the cheeks, jaw, and eye sockets.