Carbuncle
A carbuncle is a cluster of connected boils caused by a deeper skin infection.
About carbuncle
A carbuncle is a cluster of connected boils caused by a deeper skin infection.
What can cause it?
A carbuncle is a connected group of bacterial boils extending deeper into the skin.
Diabetes, immune suppression, chronic skin disease, close contact, and resistant bacteria increase risk.
What a patient may notice
Symptoms vary from person to person. Possible signs may include:
- Painful group of red swollen lumps
- Multiple areas of pus drainage
- Fever, fatigue, or spreading redness
How clinicians find the cause
Examination determines the depth and spread. Drainage is often cultured, and recurrent infections may prompt blood-glucose testing or evaluation for bacterial carriage.
Treatment and next steps
- 1
Carbuncles generally need professional drainage and often antibiotics.
- 2
Do not squeeze or cut the area because this can spread infection.
- 3
Severe infection may require hospital treatment.
Supporting recovery
- Cover drainage with a clean dressing and wash hands before and after care.
- Use warm compresses only while arranging medical evaluation.
What to expect
Most carbuncles heal after effective drainage and appropriate treatment, often within a few weeks. Larger, deeper, recurrent, or resistant infections may take longer and can leave a scar. Diabetes or immune problems can increase the chance of recurrence and complications.
Possible complications
- Permanent scarring or recurrent clusters of boils
- Cellulitis, abscess formation, or infection spreading into bone or deeper tissue
- Rare bloodstream infection, sepsis, endocarditis, or infection of internal organs
When to Contact a Medical Professional
A same-day medical evaluation is recommended, especially when symptoms are severe, worsening, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, weakness, or significant pain.
Rapidly spreading redness, severe illness, confusion, fainting, or infection near the eye needs emergency evaluation.Get emergency help for severe trouble breathing, new chest pressure, fainting, seizure, sudden weakness on one side, uncontrolled bleeding, blue or gray lips, or a person who is difficult to wake.
Ways to lower risk
- Do not share razors or towels and clean shared athletic equipment.
- Manage diabetes and recurrent skin conditions.
Trusted health information
This CHS patient-education page uses original wording and links to MedlinePlus for additional information.