Patrick Oconnell
The human body is capable of creating a lot of odd odors, and pus is no exception. If your pus smells like cheese, it could be due to an epidermoid cyst, a noncancerous bump beneath the skin. These cysts are typically characterized by the release of a foul-smelling, yellowish, cheese-like material. They are caused by a blockage at the opening of a hair follicle and can become inflamed or infected. Another potential cause of cheese-smelling pus is hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic skin condition that causes painful red abscesses in the groin and armpits that may drain foul-smelling pus. HS cysts/boils break open and ooze pus, which consists of bacteria and broken-down cells from human tissue.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Dead bacteria, white blood cells, and other necrotic material in the pus or sebum that produces a foul odor. |
| Type of Acne | Acne Conglobata, a rare form of nodulocystic acne that develops when painful, large cysts connect deep beneath the skin. |
| Treatment | Visit a dermatologist to treat this severe form of acne. Retinoids, steroids, or antibiotics may be recommended by your doctor to help manage the symptoms. |
| Cysts | Epidermoid cysts are harmless growths that occur due to a blocked hair follicle. They contain a soft, cheese-like substance known as keratin. |
| Treatment for Cysts | Cysts can be removed by excision (cutting), cryosurgery (freezing), curettage (scraping) or electrosurgery (burning). |
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What You'll Learn
Epidermoid cysts
The smell of pus can be a result of several factors, including dead bacteria, white blood cells, and other necrotic materials. One particular skin condition that can cause pus to smell like cheese is acne conglobata, a rare form of nodulocystic acne. This occurs when large, painful cysts connect deep beneath the skin, resulting in inflamed nodules filled with pus that may smell like rotten eggs.
Another possible cause of cheese-smelling pus is an epidermoid cyst, a harmless growth that occurs due to a blocked hair follicle or plugged pore. These cysts contain a soft, cheese-like substance known as keratin and are typically found on the face, neck, and back. While epidermoid cysts are usually benign, they can sometimes become inflamed, infected, or even malignant. In such cases, it is important to seek medical attention.
While epidermoid cysts usually do not require treatment, they can sometimes cause discomfort or distress. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. Treatment for epidermoid cysts may include surgical excision, cryosurgery, curettage, or electrosurgery, depending on the severity and location of the cyst. However, it is important to note that popping or treating cysts at home can cause further damage, and medical professionals advise against it.
In summary, the cheese-like smell of pus can be attributed to various factors, including bacterial infections and skin conditions such as acne conglobata. However, a persistent foul odour, especially with a yellowish, cottage cheese-like appearance, may indicate the presence of an epidermoid cyst. While these cysts are generally harmless, they can sometimes require medical attention, especially if they become inflamed, infected, or malignant. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for a proper assessment and treatment plan.
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Acne conglobata
The smell of pus from acne can be due to dead bacteria, white blood cells, and other necrotic material in the pus or sebum that produces a foul odor. Acne conglobata, a rare form of nodulocystic acne, can be a reason for this foul odor. It is a severe skin condition characterized by painful, large cysts that connect deep beneath the skin, resulting in pus with a rotten egg-like smell. Acne conglobata is an uncommon and unusually severe form of acne that often leads to disfiguring scars. It is characterized by interconnecting abscesses, cysts, and inflammatory nodules that can occur on the face, shoulders, back, chest, upper arms, buttocks, and thighs.
The primary cause of acne conglobata is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with various factors. Changes in reactivity to Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) may play a role in its development. Exposure to certain substances, such as halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons or halogens, can trigger acne conglobata in individuals who are predisposed to it. Other factors that can provoke acne conglobata include androgens, androgen-producing tumors, anabolic steroids, and testosterone therapy. Additionally, childhood obesity has been linked to an increased risk of developing acne conglobata.
It is important to note that epidermoid cysts, which are harmless growths due to blocked hair follicles, can also produce a cheese-like substance with an unpleasant smell. These cysts typically do not require treatment, but it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a correct diagnosis and appropriate management.
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Poor hygiene
One of the key reasons why pus may smell like cheese is due to the presence of bacteria. When there is a lack of proper hygiene, bacteria can proliferate on the skin and within pimples or cysts. These bacteria feed on the dead skin cells and white blood cells present in the pus, producing a foul odour. In some cases, the bacteria may be anaerobic, which thrive in low-oxygen environments, further contributing to the unpleasant smell.
Additionally, poor hygiene can lead to the buildup of dead skin cells, oils, and other debris on the skin. This buildup can clog pores and hair follicles, leading to the formation of pimples, cysts, or abscesses. When these become inflamed or infected, they can produce pus with a cheesy odour. For example, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a skin condition where painful lumps form due to trapped sweat and inflammation. If these lumps become infected, they can fill with pus that has an unpleasant odour.
Furthermore, certain types of cysts, such as sebaceous cysts or epidermoid cysts, may be associated with poor hygiene. These cysts can contain a soft, cheese-like substance made of keratin and dead skin cells. When squeezed or ruptured, they release a foul-smelling discharge, resembling cottage cheese in both appearance and odour. Maintaining good hygiene practices can help prevent the formation and infection of such cysts.
It is important to note that while poor hygiene can contribute to the cheesy smell of pus, other factors, such as genetic predispositions, hormonal changes, and skin conditions, also play a role. If you are experiencing frequent occurrences of foul-smelling pus or cysts, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for proper assessment and treatment.
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Anaerobic bacteria
Additionally, anaerobic bacteria can be involved in epidermoid cysts, also known as sebaceous cysts. These cysts are caused by blocked hair follicles and contain a soft, cheese-like substance called keratin. While typically harmless, these cysts can sometimes become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and potential bacterial growth. The infected material within the cysts may exhibit an unpleasant odour.
It is important to note that while occasional stinky pimples or acne may not be a cause for immediate alarm, frequent occurrences could indicate more serious underlying skin issues. Therefore, consulting a dermatologist is recommended to receive a proper assessment and determine the most appropriate treatment options.
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Hidradenitis suppurativa
Pus that smells like cheese can be caused by an epidermoid cyst, a harmless growth that occurs due to a blocked hair follicle. These cysts contain a soft, cheese-like substance known as keratin and can appear anywhere on the body. While epidermoid cysts do not typically require treatment, they can sometimes become inflamed, infected, or cause distress, in which case a doctor should be consulted.
Another possible cause of cheese-smelling pus is Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps, abscesses, and boils under the skin. HS typically affects the armpits and groin areas and is more common in women than men, usually beginning around puberty or in young adulthood. The lumps form when sweat becomes trapped, causing inflammation and tenderness in the affected area. These lumps can grow into boils, which may then become infected with bacteria, forming abscesses filled with pus that has an unpleasant odour when it drains. Anaerobic bacteria, which thrive in low-oxygen conditions, often infect HS cysts and cause the distinctive smell.
While it is not entirely clear why some people are more prone to HS, research indicates that it is associated with various risk factors, including age, gender, genetics, and hormones. HS is not caused by poor hygiene nor is it contagious. Treatment options for HS include oral antibiotics, compresses, and topical treatments. In some cases, surgery may be required to drain and remove the abscesses.
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Frequently asked questions
If your pus smells like cheese, it could be due to an epidermoid cyst, which is a harmless growth that occurs due to a blocked hair follicle. These cysts contain a soft, cheese-like substance known as keratin and can have an unpleasant smell.
If you suspect you have an epidermoid cyst, it is recommended to see a healthcare professional for a correct diagnosis. While these cysts do not typically need treatment, they can sometimes cause distress and become inflamed or infected.
Yes, in rare cases, pus smelling like cheese could be a symptom of acne conglobata, a severe form of nodulocystic acne. This condition can cause multiple inflamed nodules filled with pus that may have a foul odor resembling rotten eggs, garlic, or onions.
