From the Guidelines
A carbuncle is a severe skin infection that forms when multiple boils (furuncles) connect under the skin, creating a larger, deeper infection, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, and is characterized by a painful, red, swollen lump with multiple drainage points, as described in the 2014 guidelines by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1.
Key Characteristics of Carbuncles
- Formed by the connection of multiple boils under the skin
- Larger and deeper than furuncles
- Typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria
- Appears as a painful, red, swollen lump with multiple drainage points
- Often filled with pus
Treatment and Management
- Incision and drainage is the primary treatment for carbuncles, as recommended in the 2014 guidelines 1
- Oral antibiotics like dicloxacillin, cephalexin, or clindamycin may be prescribed for 7-10 days, but their use is generally reserved for cases with systemic symptoms or significant comorbidities, as noted in the 2011 guidelines 1
- Warm compresses applied 3-4 times daily for 15-20 minutes can help bring the infection to a head
- Severe cases may require surgical drainage by a healthcare provider
Risk Factors and Prevention
- People with diabetes, weakened immune systems, or poor hygiene are at higher risk of developing carbuncles
- Good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing and not sharing personal items, can help prevent carbuncles
- Seeking medical attention promptly is crucial if a carbuncle develops, especially with fever or if it's large or extremely painful, as untreated infections can spread to the bloodstream, as emphasized in the 2014 guidelines 1
From the Research
Definition of a Carbunkle
- A carbunkle is a type of skin infection that involves several hair follicles 2
- It is characterized as a red, painful collection of purulence in the dermis and deeper tissues, caused by Staphylococcus aureus or polymicrobial infections 2
Comparison to Other Skin Infections
- Carbunkles are similar to furuncles, but involve multiple hair follicles instead of just one 2
- They are also distinct from other skin infections such as impetigo, folliculitis, and cellulitis, which have different causes and symptoms 2, 3, 4
Treatment of Carbunkles
- The management of carbunkles typically consists of incision and drainage 2
- Oral antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases, such as for patients with severe immunocompromise or systemic signs of infection 2
- Antibiotics such as cephalexin and dicloxacillin have been shown to be effective in treating staphylococcal skin infections, including carbunkles 3, 4