Q: I think I either have an abscess or a hunk of scar tissue on my right upper glute. I am a little concerned about it, so I wanted to know whether scar tissue can form quickly or whether it takes a lot of time? And also, whether scar tissue is harmful to the area?

A: The fact that you say it developed quickly is a concern to me. It should be to you, too. I would go get it checked out. Scar tissue usually develops over time, not rapidly. If it’s painful and is seeping pus or other fluid, it is an abscess trying to break free. You need medical attention for it. But in the meantime, put hot compresses on it to try to get it to “pop” or surface, and keep the area clean. You’ll want to expose it to air, not keep it under wraps. Abscesses are temporary but if left untreated can really be a problem for people because they can infect deeper tissue. Some tissue necrosis (death) can occur from a bad abscess and I’ve known guys who’ve had to get that necrotic tissue cut out. In general, however, it usually drains without incident and a cycle of antibiotics is given to stave off infection. But you should check out the possibility of a tumor or other mass, considering it came up so quickly. Scar tissue usually just feels like crumpled up plastic cling wrap when a needle goes through it, and it doesn’t hurt. That’s a good indicator for you to rule out what it is not.

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