Furuncules (boils) sometimes have a large pustule at the surface. This person developed several furuncles (boils) and pustules on the leg. This is a close-up of a furuncule (boil), which has the typical round shape. Furuncles tend to be raised from the skin surface and tender to the touch. This person has several scattered furuncules (boils). Furuncles (boils) are often seen in areas of occlusion, such as the armpits. This person has a furuncule (boil) on the neck. Furuncules are typically red, warm, and tender to the touch. A teenage male with furunculosis (boils) displays CA-MRSA (community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcal aureus), as confirmed by culture of the affected area.
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Boils (Furunculosis)  Teen information

Picture of Boils (Furunculosis): Furuncules (boils) sometimes have a large pustule at the surface. Divider line
Furuncules (boils) sometimes have a large pustule at the surface.
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Overview
Furunculosis is a skin condition that occurs with the development of multiple boils involving an entire hair follicle and nearby skin tissue. The medical name for a boil is "furuncle," which is where the name of the condition comes from. Boils are very common and are caused by bacteria or fungi that are normally found on the skin of healthy people. However, when there is damage to the hair follicle, the bacteria or fungi that reside on the skin's surface are able to penetrate the skin and enter deeper into the follicle, underneath the skin. They usually begin as a tender, red bump that becomes pus-filled. If not treated or lanced (incised), the boils can get bigger and more painful. If the infection starts to spread, the affected person may start to develop fevers and/or chills.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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