What does "abscess" mean in medical terminology?

An abscess is a localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue, resulting from the body's immune response to infection. The pus consists of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris. Abscesses can form anywhere in the body including the skin, brain, liver, lungs, and teeth. A skin abscess presents as a painful, warm, swollen, red area that may drain pus. Treatment typically involves incision and drainage, abbreviated I and D, and possibly antibiotics. ---