Boils (Furuncles)

Also Know As Skin Abscess, Cutaneous Abscess, Carbuncle

A boil is a skin infection that begins in a hair follicle or oil gland. ^[1] It often starts as a red, tender lumps which quickly fills with pus and eventually grows larger and more painful until it ruptures and drain. ^[2] Usual sites are face, neck, armpits, shoulders, and buttocks. When eyelid is affected, it is properly termed sty. ^[1] Boils are more common in males and usually affect teenagers and young adults. ^[3]         

Causes

Boils are often caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus. The microorganism may normally thrive on the skin but when there are breaks in the skin, it could enter the body.^[4]

Risk Factors

Conditions that make a person susceptible of getting boils are:  diabetes, immunodeficiency, poor nutrition, poor hygiene and exposure to skin irritants like harsh chemicals.^[4] Young males living in over-crowded and unhygienic places like military base or prison are at risk. ^[3]   

Symptoms

A boil is usually pea-sized or can be as large as golf ball. White or yellow centres may also be present. It may weep, ooze or crust and it may also join with another boil or spread to other skin areas. A boil usually starts as a tender, pinkish-red, swollen, firm area in the skin. As time passes, it  will feel like a water-filled balloon or cyst. As the boil fills with pus and dead tissue, pain increases and then after some time, the boil may drain on its own.

Other symptoms include fatigue, fever and itching.^[5]

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is often done by considering signs, symptoms and medical history. The sores are inspected for the distinguishing characteristics.

Recurring infections may warrant culture of the drainage.^[2] Laboratory tests may also be done if there is suspicion of diabetes. ^[4]

Treatment

Boils often heal on their own. They usually open and drain which typically take place in about less than 2 weeks. Hygiene is extremely important to avoid spreading the infection so be sure to wash hands after touching the boil. Also, change dressings regularly. Deep, large boils may need surgery. [5]

References:

1. http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/boils
2. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/boils-and-carbuncles/DS00466
3. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Boils/Pages/Introduction.aspx
4. http://www.emedicinehealth.com/boils/page2_em.htm#Causes%20of%20Boils
5. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001474.htm

Public Discussion