Pilonidal omphalitis in a teenager: A case report

A 15-year-old male with a one-year history of foul-smelling umbilical discharge and pain was diagnosed with pilonidal omphalitis, a rare condition caused by retained hair in the umbilicus. Initial treatment with povidone-iodine was ineffective, but surgical removal of the hair and cauterization of granulation tissue led to significant symptom resolution. This case highlights the importance of considering pilonidal omphalitis in adolescents with umbilical discharge and significant hair growth, emphasizing the need for prompt treatment to avoid prolonged symptoms.