Furunculosis is a recurrent skin infection that can affect people’s quality of life due to the pain and discomfort it can cause.
Boil
Furunculosis is the recurrent or multiple presence of boils (furuncles) on the body; a boil is an acute infection of the hair follicle and surrounding tissues, usually caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus.
This infection appears as a red, warm, and painful nodule that typically progresses to form a collection of pus inside.
What is pus
Pus is a thick, opaque fluid that forms during an inflammatory immune response to a bacterial infection and is composed of dead white blood cells, bacteria (which may be alive or dead), damaged tissue, and proteins.
The accumulation of pus is a sign that the body is trying to eliminate the infection, but when pus becomes trapped within tissue, it can create painful abscesses that require medical intervention.
Furunculosis treatment
Boils generally develop in areas of the body where there is friction, sweating, or bacterial buildup, such as the neck area, armpits, buttocks, and thighs.
A boil may be an isolated event, but there are factors that predispose people to recurrent infections, which may include inadequate hygiene, immune disorders, or diseases such as diabetes.
A person with furunculosis usually presents multiple boils in various parts of the body; these cause pain, tenderness, and inflammation, and in some severe or systemic cases, general discomfort or fever may develop.
It is advisable to see a dermatologist if this condition recurs or if the discomfort is severe.
The treatment for furunculosis aims primarily to relieve symptoms, eliminate the infection, and prevent recurrences.
This is mainly accomplished through local care of the boil, which may include applying warm compresses, keeping the area clean, and avoiding manipulation or squeezing of the boil, as this can worsen the infection and increase the risk of complications.
Specific medical treatments may be necessary for more severe or recurrent cases, including the use of antibiotics or performing surgical drainage. Prevention also plays a crucial role in managing furunculosis.
People with recurrent episodes or severe complications need to see a specialist for a more thorough evaluation and appropriate management of this condition.
At the ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Department, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes:
MedlinePlus, Elsevier, Stanford Children
