What is an abscess?

An abscess is defined as a collection of pus under the skin that results from an infection. When bacteria invade the tissues, the body responds by sending white blood cells to fight the infection. As these white blood cells accumulate, they create pus, which is a thick fluid made up of dead cells, bacteria, and other debris. This pus collects in a cavity formed by tissue damage, leading to notable swelling and tenderness in the affected area.

Understanding this definition is crucial, especially in veterinary contexts, as recognizing an abscess can help in providing appropriate and timely treatment to prevent further complications. Options such as a swelling of muscle tissue describe conditions that may involve inflammation or other processes but do not specifically encompass the features of an abscess. Similarly, while an abscess can be part of a skin infection, it is not a type of skin infection itself. A minor cut or bruise does not adequately describe the formation of pus and the underlying infectious process that characterizes an abscess.