A carbuncle is a collection of badly infected hair follicles, called boils or furuncles, which form a badly infected patch of skin, according to MedlinePlus. Carbuncles will form a large infected lump full of pus, fluid and dead tissue, or they can be a connected series of such lumps. Most carbuncles are caused by the common bacteria staphylococcus aureus, and they often leave behind a scar. The infection is contagious and can spread to other parts of the body or to other people. The condition is often treatable at home, but may require a doctor's care.
Localized Symptoms
A carbuncle may start as an itchy patch of skin but will then form an inflamed lump under the skin, according to MedlinePlus. The lump can be as small as pea but it can grow as large as a golf ball. The carbuncle will be red and irritated and painful to the touch. Carbuncles tend to grow very fast, have a white or yellow center and ooze fluid and pus. Or, they may crust over.
Systemic Symptoms
Sometimes, carbuncles cause a fever, chills, tiredness and a general feeling of illness. Carbuncles are most common on the back, thighs or the nape of the neck, but they can occur anywhere and they can spread all over the body, according to MedlinePlus.
When To Call A Doctor
A carbuncle normally drains and heals on its own in about two weeks, according to MedlinePlus. If it takes longer than that, seek medical care. Medical care is also warranted if a carbuncle keeps coming back, appears on the face or spine, or if you have a fever, red streaks surrounding the lump, severe swelling or worsening pain, says the Mayo Clinic.
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