• Carbuncles
(A cluster of connected boils caused by a deeper bacterial skin infection)
What Is a Carbuncle?
A carbuncle is a deeper bacterial skin infection made up of multiple connected boils. It usually involves several infected hair follicles that merge into a larger swollen, painful area filled with pus.
Carbuncles are most often caused by staph bacteria, including sometimes MRSA.
What Does a Carbuncle Look Like?
Common signs include:
- A large, painful, swollen lump
- Several pus points or drainage openings
- Redness and warmth around the area
- Tenderness or throbbing pain
- Fever, fatigue, or feeling unwell in more serious cases
Common locations include:
- Back of the neck
- Shoulders
- Back
- Buttocks
- Thighs
How Is a Carbuncle Different From a Boil?
A boil is usually one infected hair follicle.
A carbuncle is a cluster of connected boils and is usually larger, deeper, more painful, and more likely to need medical treatment.
How Are Carbuncles Treated?
Treatment depends on severity and may include:
- Warm compresses
- Prescription antibiotics
- Culture testing to check for MRSA
- Incision and drainage (I&D) if pus is trapped
- Wound care follow-up
Do not squeeze or cut a carbuncle at home.
Pre-Op Instructions
Before evaluation or possible drainage
- Do not squeeze, lance, or pop the area.
- Tell us if you have fever, diabetes, immune suppression, or recurrent infections.
- Tell us if you take blood thinners or have medication allergies.
- Arrive with clean skin.
- Avoid applying thick ointments right before the visit unless instructed.
Post-Op Instructions
After treatment or incision and drainage
- Keep the area clean and covered.
- Wash hands before and after wound care.
- Change dressings as directed.
- Complete antibiotics if prescribed.
- Avoid sharing towels, razors, clothing, or bedding.
- Return for follow-up if packing was placed.
Call the office promptly if:
- Fever develops or worsens
- Redness spreads
- Pain increases
- Drainage becomes foul-smelling
- New boils appear
- The wound is not improving