What is a Carbuncle?

The term “carbuncle” sounds like something out of a fairy tale, but the condition is very real and affects many people. Most commonly experienced on the face or neck, a carbuncle is a cluster of boils that are connected underneath the skin. A boil is a pocket of pus, bacteria, and fluid that forms in response to an infection. Boils can occur for a variety of reasons, but typically develop when there is a break or damage in the skin, allowing bacteria to enter and cause an infection. Carbuncles occur when multiple boils group together and spread further under the skin.

What are the Symptoms of a Carbuncle?

The most obvious symptom of a carbuncle is a cluster of boils on the surface of the skin. These boils are usually red, inflamed, tender, and may contain pus. They can range in size from pencil eraser heads to larger and can be found in clusters or lines depending on the location and severity.

Along with these skin lesions, carbuncles can also cause fever, chills, fatigue, and general body aches. If left untreated, carbuncles may cause deeper infection and spread to surrounding tissue.

How is A Carbuncle Treated?

Most carbuncles will go away without medical treatment. However, it is important to keep the area clean and free of infection by changing dressings daily and applying a warm compress several times a day.

If the carbuncle is particularly large or painful, a doctor may prescribe or inject antibiotics into the site. In some cases, the carbuncle may need to be opened and drained in order to allow the infection to be flushed out and the boils to heal. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the carbuncle.

Whatever the treatment, it is important to seek medical attention if a carbuncle is present. This will help ensure the infection does not spread and that the lesions heal properly. Left untreated, carbuncles can become serious and lead to complications such as scarring and disfigurement.