When a normal skin flora (bacteria from the skin) enter a hair follicle and block the gland, a lesion forms at that place. It is called a boil. The lesion begins as redness of the area, accompanied with tenderness and swelling. This becomes infected and pus filled later on, which bursts and drains in few days. Boils mostly develop at areas such as: face, neck, axilla, backs or buttocks. They can be individual or in a group called carbuncles. A boil is usually caused by entry of staphylococcal bacteria. People more prone to getting these are: diabetics, immunocompromised, poor hygiene, chemical exposure. If a boil /carbuncle is big it can cause fever and involve local lymph node group as well, palpable lymph node may be seen. Diagnosis is usually made clinically. It is mostly a self-limiting condition but symptomatic relief with antipyretics and anti-inflammatory medicines may be taken. Antibiotic use may be required for carbuncles.
