What are skin ulcers originating from a furuncle (boil)?

From the Guidelines

Carbuncles are skin ulcers originating from a furuncle (boil) that have progressed to involve several adjacent follicles, producing a coalescent inflammatory mass with pus draining from multiple follicular orifices 1.

Key Characteristics

• Typically larger and deeper than furuncles
• Often develop on the back of the neck, especially in individuals with diabetes
• Require incision and drainage, with systemic antimicrobials usually unnecessary unless fever or other evidence of systemic infection is present
• Can be a result of infection with S. aureus, which can be treated with antibacterial agents to eradicate staphylococcal carriage 1

Treatment and Prevention

• Incision and drainage are necessary for large furuncles and all carbuncles
• Systemic antibiotics are usually unnecessary, unless extensive surrounding cellulitis or fever occurs
• Eradication of staphylococcal carriage can be achieved through the use of antibacterial agents, such as mupirocin ointment or clindamycin 1 Some key points to note are:
• Furuncles often rupture and drain spontaneously or following treatment with moist heat 1
• Inadequate personal hygiene and exposure to others with furuncles are important predisposing factors in the development of carbuncles 1

From the Research

Skin Ulcers Originating from a Furuncle (Boil)

• A furuncle, also known as a boil, is a skin infection that can lead to the formation of an ulcer 2.
• If left untreated, a furuncle can progress to a more serious infection, such as cellulitis or abscesses, which can cause skin ulcers 3, 4.
• In some cases, a furuncle can become infected with larvae, leading to a condition known as furuncular cutaneous myiasis, which can cause a skin ulcer 5.
• The treatment of skin ulcers originating from a furuncle typically involves incision and drainage, as well as antimicrobial therapy if necessary 3, 4.
• It is essential to properly manage and treat skin ulcers to prevent further complications, such as infection, scarring, and potentially life-threatening conditions 6, 4.