Furunculus, commonly referred to as a boil, is a skin infection characterized by the formation of a painful, swollen, and pus-filled bump on the skin. It is classified as a type of abscess, which is a localized collection of pus in a tissue or organ, usually caused by bacterial infection.
The development of furunculus begins when bacteria, typically Staphylococcus aureus, enters the hair follicle or oil gland through a small break or cut in the skin. This causes an inflammatory response, resulting in the formation of a red, tender lump known as a furuncle. As the infection progresses, the furuncle fills with pus, causing increased pain and swelling.
Furunculus commonly occurs in areas where hair grows densely, including the back of the neck, face, armpits, buttocks, and thighs. Risk factors for its development include poor hygiene, compromised immune system, obesity, diabetes, and close skin contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects.
Treatment for furunculus may involve applying warm compresses to the affected area to promote drainage, using antiseptic solutions to clean the lesion, and taking oral or topical antibiotics to eliminate the infection. In some cases, surgical incision and drainage may be necessary to remove the accumulated pus. Prevention measures include maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items, and promptly treating any cuts or wounds on the skin to minimize the risk of bacterial entry.
