abscess
Pus Collection
Plain-language definition
A walled-off collection of pus from infection. Orbital abscess is a serious complication of sinusitis requiring urgent drainage.
Where this term comes up
“Surgery may be needed if abscess forms”
Condition · Orbital Cellulitis
“Orbital cellulitis/abscess”
Finding · Proptosis (Exophthalmos)
“There is infection at the puncture site (cellulitis, abscess) - pick a different site or defer.”
Test · Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)
- Category
- Condition, finding, or disease process
- Also written as
- abscesses
Pathology terms describe diseases, tissue changes, exam findings, or complications that can affect vision or eye comfort.
Related glossary terms
- MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- meningitis
Brain Membrane Infection
- proptosis
Forward-Bulging Eye
- bilaterally
On Both Sides
- lacrimal
Tear-Related
- hemianopia
Loss of Half of Vision
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.