Carbuncle

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Carbuncle

Carbuncle (/kɑːrˈbʌŋkəl/) is a medical term referring to a cluster of boils that are connected to each other under the skin. A boil, or furuncle, is an infection of a hair follicle, while a carbuncle is a more severe condition that penetrates deeper into the skin, involving a group of hair follicles.

Etymology

The term "carbuncle" is derived from the Latin word "carbunculus", which means "little coal". This is due to the red, inflamed appearance of the condition, which can resemble a burning coal.

Symptoms

A carbuncle is larger than a single boil, typically measuring more than an inch across. It may have several openings that drain pus. Symptoms may include a red, swollen lump on the skin that is painful to touch, fever, fatigue, and a feeling of general sickness.

Causes

Carbuncles are most commonly caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. They can also be caused by other types of bacteria or fungi found on the skin's surface. Damage to the hair follicle allows these bacteria to enter deeper into the tissues, causing a severe infection.

Treatment

Treatment for a carbuncle often includes the application of warm compresses to promote drainage and healing, and the use of antibiotics. In severe cases, the carbuncle may need to be surgically drained.

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