Exams and Tests

The doctor will take a medical history and ask for information about the following:

• How long the abscess has been present



• If the patient recalls any injury to that area



• What medicines the patient is taking



• If the patient has any allergies



• If the patient had a fever at home



• The doctor will examine the abscess and surrounding areas. If it is near the anus or vagina, the doctor will perform a rectal or vaginal exam. If an arm or leg is involved, the doctor will feel for an enlarged lymph node either in the groin or under the arm.



• Depending on the location and the extent of the abscess, the doctor may obtain blood tests and imaging studies, though these measures are rarely needed.