The goal of treatment is the cure of the infection. Surgical incision and drainage of the abscess, with or without packing for 24 to 48 hours, cleans the area and allows infection to be controlled. Some skin abscesses may be drained in the health care provider's office. Antibiotics are given to control the infection. Elevate the affected part to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Most skin abscesses are curable with treatment.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if signs of superficial skin infection occur, including fever , pain, redness, localized swelling , drainage that looks like pus or is bloody. Also call for an appointment with your health care provider if new symptoms develop during or after treatment for skin abscess. Prevention Prevent and watch for bacterial infections. Keep the skin around minor wounds clean and dry. Consult the health care provider if you develop signs of infection, including fever , pain, redness, localized swelling , or drainage that looks like pus or is bloody.