Diagnosis - Abscess

Talk to your GP if you think you have an abscess.

There are a few tests used to diagnose an abscess. The type of test you get depends on where it is on your body.

Skin abscesses

If you have a skin abscess, a GP will examine the affected area and may ask you:

• how long you've had the abscess
• if you've injured that area
• if you have any other symptoms

Some pus may be taken from your abscess and sent for testing. This will identify the type of bacteria causing the abscess. This helps to find the best way of treating it.

If you've had more than 1 skin abscess, you may need to give a sample of your pee. This will be tested for glucose, which is a sign of diabetes. People with diabetes have an increased risk of developing skin abscesses.

If you have recurring boils and abscesses, your GP may get the laboratory to do more tests on the bacteria. These extra tests will show if it's producing Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) toxin.

You may need other treatments. For example, a medicated body wash, like Hibiscrub, or an antibiotic cream to stop these bacteria living on the body.

Internal abscesses

An abscess that develops inside your body is more difficult to diagnose than one on your skin. This is because they cannot be seen.

A GP will ask you about your symptoms and any other health conditions you may have. If necessary, they'll refer you to a specialist.