Carbuncle Symptoms, Causes & More
Article Sources
- 1. 'Carbuncle: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia.' MedlinePlus, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000825.htm
- 2. 'Boils and carbuncles.' Mayo Clinic, [www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/boils-and-carbuncles/symptoms-causes/syc-20353770.](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/boils-and-carbuncles/symptoms-causes/syc-20353770.)
- 3. Folliculitis, Boils and Carbuncles.' Loma Linda University Health, lluh.org/conditions/folliculitis-boils-and-carbuncles
- 4. 'Furuncles and Carbuncles - Dermatologic Disorders.' Merck Manuals Professional Edition, www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/bacterial-skin-infections/furuncles-and-carbuncles
Symptoms
A carbuncle is a group of boils concentrated in a small area. It's an infection that occurs deep within the skin and is often filled with pus, which contains dead tissues and bacteria. The first symptom of a carbuncle is often a red, painful swelling beneath the skin.
The size of the swelling will increase over a few days and become filled with pus. A yellow-colored head will then develop from which the pus will drain. Carbuncles can measure up to four inches and are likely to leave a scar. They also take longer to heal than boils and can lead to fever and chills.
