What is an abscess?

An abscess is defined as a localized collection of pus that forms in response to infection, inflammation, or the presence of foreign material within body tissues. This accumulation of pus can occur in various parts of the body and is typically surrounded by inflamed tissue. The pus within an abscess is primarily composed of white blood cells, dead tissue, and often, bacteria.

In contrast, a deep cut in the skin refers to a type of wound rather than an accumulation of pus. An inflammatory response is a broader term that encompasses a variety of bodily reactions to injury or infection but does not specifically denote the collection of pus. Lastly, a type of skin cancer does not relate to the definition of an abscess as it denotes abnormal cellular growth rather than an infectious process leading to pus formation. Understanding that an abscess is specifically linked to the body’s response to infection helps clarify its identification in a clinical context.