An abscess may grow from a simple pimple or insect bite into a red, exquisitely tender lump. Bacteria, mainly Staphylococcus aureus, cause abscesses, commonly on the neck, buttocks, and legs. Fully developed abscesses will not get better without some form of drainage, spontaneous or otherwise. This will result in immediate pain relief and rapid resolution of the inflammation.
Recurrent abscesses represent a unique problem in selected individuals.
They are sometimes referred to as staph carriers as they usually harbor the bacteria in their nose or on their skin. Treatment has not been altogether successful.