Periapical Abscess
Pronunciation: peh-ree-AY-pih-kul AB-ses
A localised collection of pus at the apex of a tooth root, resulting from bacterial infection of a necrotic dental pulp.
Full Definition
A periapical abscess is an acute or chronic purulent infection arising at the periapex of a tooth, typically secondary to pulp necrosis caused by caries, trauma, or a failed root canal. Clinically, it presents with swelling, tenderness on percussion, and may progress to a localised swelling or cellulitis requiring surgical drainage. In oral surgery documentation, it must be distinguished from a periodontal (lateral) abscess, which originates from the periodontium rather than the pulp. Editors should note correct spelling ('periapical', not 'peri-apical'; do not hyphenate) and verify anatomical precision in clinical records.
Usage
Usage note: One word, no hyphen: 'periapical'. Do not confuse with 'periodontal abscess', which has a different aetiology and is managed differently. Verify drainage details in operative notes for editorial accuracy.
In Context
- "Incision and drainage of the periapical abscess was carried out under local anaesthesia, with a drain inserted for 48 hours." — Operative Report
- "The referral letter described a 'peri-apical abscess'; this was corrected to the one-word form 'periapical abscess' during copy-editing." — Copy-editing Note