Carbuncle

For other uses, see Carbuncle (disambiguation).
Carbuncle
Carbuncle on buttock of a diabetic person
Pronunciation
SpecialtyDermatology

A carbuncle is a cluster of boils caused by bacterial infection, most commonly with Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.[1] The presence of a carbuncle is a sign that the immune system is active and fighting the infection.[2] The infection is contagious and may spread to other areas of the body, or other people; those living in the same residence may develop carbuncles at the same time.[3] In the early 21st century, infection involving methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become more common.[4]

  1. ^ Ni Riain, Una (2008-12-01). "Guide to the management of bacterial skin infections". Prescriber. 19 (23–24): 28–37. doi:10.1002/psb.323. ISSN 1931-2253.
  2. ^ "Carbuncle – PubMed Health". National Institute of Health. 2007-04-12. Retrieved 2011-05-10.
  3. ^ "Carbuncle: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia". medlineplus.gov. Retrieved 2017-06-26.
  4. ^ "Furuncles and Carbuncles - Dermatologic Disorders - Merck Manuals Professional Edition". Merck Manuals Professional Edition. Retrieved 2017-06-26.