Pilonidal Sinus - Frequently Asked Questions

A condition affecting the skin of the intergluteal cleft, where small openings form along the cleft. The holes lead to a subcutaneous pocket that usually contains loose hairs and inflamed tissue. The name 'pilonidal' comes from Latin and means 'nest of hair'.

Yes, these are common lay terms; not medically or anatomically precise.

No. It is an acquired disease that develops during life, usually around the teenage years.

No. It is caused by inflammation of the hair follicles and fat in the skin of the intergluteal cleft, not by contagion.