What are cysts and where do they commonly appear. How can you identify different types of cysts. When should you seek medical attention for a cyst. What are the treatment options for various cysts.

Understanding Cysts: Definition and General Characteristics

Cysts are abnormal, sac-like structures that can develop in various parts of the body. These fluid-filled lumps are typically benign and can contain air, liquid, or semi-solid material. While cysts are generally harmless, they can occasionally cause discomfort or indicate underlying health issues.

Key characteristics of cysts include:

• Round or oval shape
• Smooth surface
• Movable under the skin
• Varying sizes, from microscopic to several centimeters in diameter
• May be painless or cause discomfort depending on location and size

Are all cysts the same? No, cysts can vary significantly in their composition, location, and potential health implications. While many cysts are benign and require no treatment, some may need medical intervention or further investigation to rule out more serious conditions.

Common Types of Cysts and Their Locations

Cysts can appear in various parts of the body, each with its unique characteristics and potential causes. Here are some common types of cysts and their typical locations:

Acne Cysts

Acne cysts are a severe form of acne that occurs when oil and dead skin cells block pores, leading to inflammation and infection. These cysts typically appear on the face, chest, and back.

Baker’s Cyst

A Baker’s cyst, also known as a popliteal cyst, forms at the back of the knee. It’s often associated with knee injuries, arthritis, or inflammation.

Bartholin’s Cyst

Bartholin’s cysts develop in the Bartholin glands, located on either side of the vaginal opening. They occur when the gland’s duct becomes blocked, causing fluid accumulation.

Breast Cysts

Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast tissue. They’re common, especially in women approaching menopause or those on hormone replacement therapy.

Epidermoid Cysts

Epidermoid cysts, also called sebaceous cysts, typically form on the face, neck, trunk, or groin. They result from blocked hair follicles or skin trauma.

Pilonidal Cysts

Pilonidal cysts develop near the tailbone, often due to ingrown hairs. They’re more common in young men and individuals who sit for extended periods.

Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are noncancerous lumps that typically form along tendons or joints of the wrists or hands. They’re filled with a jelly-like fluid and can vary in size.

Identifying Cysts: Visual Characteristics and Symptoms

Recognizing a cyst can be crucial for early detection and appropriate treatment. While the appearance of cysts can vary depending on their type and location, there are some general visual characteristics and symptoms to look out for:

• Round or oval-shaped lumps under the skin
• Smooth surface that may move slightly when touched
• Size ranging from a pea to several centimeters in diameter
• Skin color may be normal or slightly reddened
• Possible tenderness or pain, especially if infected
• Potential discharge if the cyst ruptures

Can cysts change in appearance over time? Yes, cysts can fluctuate in size and may become more noticeable or painful during certain activities or hormonal changes. Some cysts may even resolve on their own, while others may persist or grow larger.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Cysts

While many cysts are harmless and don’t require treatment, there are instances when medical attention is necessary. Consider seeking medical advice if you experience any of the following:

• Rapid growth or sudden changes in the cyst’s appearance
• Persistent pain or discomfort
• Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or fever
• Cysts that interfere with daily activities or cause cosmetic concerns
• Any lump or bump that you’re unsure about, especially in sensitive areas like the breast or testicles

How do doctors diagnose cysts? Physicians may use various methods to diagnose cysts, including:

1. Physical examination
2. Ultrasound imaging
3. CT scans
4. MRI scans
5. Biopsy (in some cases)

These diagnostic tools help determine the nature of the cyst and guide appropriate treatment decisions.

Treatment Options for Various Types of Cysts

The treatment approach for cysts depends on various factors, including the type of cyst, its location, size, and whether it’s causing symptoms or complications. Here are some common treatment options:

Watchful Waiting

Many cysts don’t require immediate treatment and may resolve on their own. In these cases, your doctor may recommend monitoring the cyst for any changes.

Drainage

For some cysts, particularly those that are large or causing discomfort, drainage may be necessary. This procedure involves using a needle to aspirate the fluid from the cyst.

Surgical Removal

In cases where cysts are persistent, large, or potentially problematic, surgical removal may be recommended. This can be done through minimally invasive techniques or open surgery, depending on the cyst’s location and characteristics.

Medication

For certain types of cysts, such as acne cysts, medications may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and prevent future occurrences. These may include topical or oral antibiotics, retinoids, or anti-inflammatory drugs.

Home Remedies

Some cysts may benefit from home treatments, such as warm compresses to promote drainage or over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before attempting any home remedies.

Is cyst removal always necessary? No, not all cysts require removal. The decision to remove a cyst depends on various factors, including its location, size, symptoms, and potential for complications. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best course of action based on your individual case.

Preventing Cysts: Tips and Lifestyle Modifications

While it’s not always possible to prevent cysts from forming, there are some measures you can take to reduce your risk or manage existing cysts:

• Maintain good hygiene to prevent skin infections and blocked pores
• Avoid tight clothing that can irritate the skin, especially in areas prone to cysts
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support overall skin health
• Manage underlying conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or autoimmune disorders, that may contribute to cyst formation
• Avoid picking or squeezing existing cysts, as this can lead to infection or scarring
• Use protective equipment during activities that may cause repetitive stress or trauma to joints

Can lifestyle changes completely prevent cysts? While lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk of certain types of cysts, it’s important to note that some cysts may develop due to genetic factors or other uncontrollable causes. Regular check-ups and early detection remain crucial for managing cysts effectively.

Cysts vs. Other Skin Conditions: Differential Diagnosis

Cysts can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions or growths. Understanding the differences can help in seeking appropriate medical attention and treatment. Here are some conditions that may resemble cysts:

Lipomas

Lipomas are benign fatty tumors that grow slowly under the skin. Unlike cysts, lipomas are typically soft and doughy to the touch and don’t contain fluid.

Abscesses

Abscesses are painful, pus-filled infections that can resemble cysts. However, abscesses are usually more painful, warm to the touch, and may be accompanied by fever or other signs of infection.

Skin Tags

Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that typically appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. Unlike cysts, they’re usually attached to the skin by a thin stalk.

Moles

Moles are pigmented growths on the skin that can be flat or raised. While some moles may resemble cysts, they typically have a different texture and color.

Warts

Warts are caused by viral infections and appear as rough, raised growths on the skin. They differ from cysts in texture and appearance.

How can you distinguish between cysts and other skin conditions? While visual inspection can provide some clues, a definitive diagnosis often requires professional medical evaluation. If you’re unsure about a skin growth, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider for an accurate assessment.

Living with Cysts: Management and Quality of Life

For individuals living with chronic or recurrent cysts, managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life is essential. Here are some strategies to help cope with cysts:

• Follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan and attend regular check-ups
• Use pain management techniques, such as over-the-counter pain relievers or cold/hot compresses, as recommended by your doctor
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating cyst-prone areas
• Practice stress-reduction techniques, as stress can exacerbate some cyst-related conditions
• Join support groups or online communities to connect with others experiencing similar issues
• Maintain open communication with your healthcare team about any changes or concerns

Can cysts impact mental health? Yes, living with visible or painful cysts can affect self-esteem and emotional well-being. It’s important to address both the physical and psychological aspects of cyst management. If you’re struggling with the emotional impact of cysts, consider speaking with a mental health professional or counselor for additional support.

Understanding cysts, their various types, and management strategies is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of cysts, seeking appropriate medical care, and following recommended treatment plans, individuals can effectively manage these common skin conditions. Remember that while many cysts are benign and harmless, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment advice.

Pictures of What They Look Like

Medically Reviewed by Stephanie S. Gardner, MD on November 22, 2022

It’s a lump of fluid, air, or something else. Cysts are very common, and most aren’t cancer. You may need tests (like a CT scan, ultrasound, or biopsy) to confirm that it’s a cyst. They do not go away, but often, cysts don’t need treatment. Your doctor can let you know if yours does. You can get cysts in many different parts of your body, and you may not even know that they’re there.

You get acne when oil and dead skin block a pore. This often causes a small growth, or “pimple,” that goes away on its own or with over-the-counter drugs. If it’s more serious or a pimple gets very irritated, you might get a larger squishy growth called a cyst. (Hard growths are called nodules.) Talk to your doctor about treatment including antibiotics and other medications for your cysts.

A soft, fluid-filled lump can form at the back of your knee if you injure the joint because of arthritis, inflammation, a torn ligament, or other causes. You might mistake it for a blood clot. Rest with your leg raised up and ice the area for 15 minutes at a time. Anti-inflammatory drugs could also help. In some cases your doctor may suggest surgery or use a needle to drain it or inject steroids to lessen swelling.

The tiny Bartholin glands are deep under the skin on either side of the vagina opening. Their job seems to be to make fluids for sex. If something blocks a duct in one of these glands, it fills with mucus and gets bigger. It could even get infected and form a sore called an abscess. Tub soaks can help. In serious cases, your doctor might do surgery to create a permanent drain or remove the cyst.

You might notice one or more smooth lumps with clear edges on your breast, but you can’t always feel them. They may hurt in the days just before your period starts or when you have lots of caffeine. They’re very common and more likely right before menopause, or afterward, if you take replacement hormones. You don’t usually need to treat them, but see your doctor about any breast lump because it may be something more serious than a cyst.

In the womb, a baby’s bladder connects to its belly button through a channel called the urachus in the abdominal wall gut. If it doesn’t close by the time you’re born, a small lump of tissue and fluid (a cyst) can grow there. If it gets infected, you could have belly button pain, fever, and bloody urine. Your doctor may give you antibiotics, drain or remove the cyst, and possibly repair the area with surgery.

Here, something blocks a gland around a hair or irritates the opening (follicle) that holds it, often on your face, ear, head, trunk, or groin. That causes a bump to grow slowly under the skin. It’s usually soft enough to move when you touch it.  Usually, it doesn’t hurt, but you might notice a bad smell. Smaller ones usually go away on their own, but your doctor may need to drain or remove larger, swollen, or painful cysts.

A loose hair gets pushed back into the skin. Your body sees it as a threat and builds a pocket around it that holds dead skin and fluid. You might notice irritation at the base of your spine in the crease where your buttocks start.   If it gets infected, it can become very painful and may need to be drained or removed. Younger men get it more often, as do people who sit a lot, aren’t active, or are obese.

It’s a lump filled with liquid, most often near joints or tendons on your wrist or fingers. Tendon or joint stress might cause it, but it’s not clear. It may hurt and sometimes changes in size or goes away on its own. Anti-inflammatory meds or splints might curb pain. In more serious cases, your doctor may drain it with a needle or remove it completely.

Oil from the meibomian glands around the eyelids gets too thick or the opening clogs. Either way, it builds up and inflames the gland and forms a lump. The cause is often unclear, but certain skin types get it more. You may have no pain unless it gets fairly large. Really big ones can press on your eye and blur your vision. It usually goes away on its own, and warm compresses can help. Talk to your doctor if it sticks around.

Eggs from a pork tapeworm, a parasite, can pass into your food or drink contaminated with poop. They hatch in your gut and send small round “oncospheres” through your blood to the brain, muscles, liver, and other organs where they form cysts. You doctor will probably only treat them if they’re in your brain where they could cause headaches, seizures, confusion, or other problems. You’d likely take steroids to ease inflammation.

This cyst forms inside the epididymis, a coiled tube inside a man’s scrotum that connects to their testicles and helps move sperm. It seems to happen when sperm build up at the end of the tube. It’s not cancerous and doesn’t usually hurt, but your doctor should check to be sure. It usually goes away on its own. About a third of all men will get a spermatocele in their lifetime.

It happens before you’re born if the layers of your skin don’t grow together properly, usually on the head, neck, or face. That causes a pocket that traps skin, hair follicles, sweat glands, blood, fat, nails, teeth, and other structures. It might not be noticeable until fluid builds up and makes it bigger, sometimes years after birth. Then it looks like a small lump with skin on top that’s easy to move. Your doctor will likely remove the cyst with surgery.

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

1) jarabee123 / Thinkstock

2) Dr P. Marazzi / Science Source

3) Dr P. Marazzi / Science Source

4) CNRI / Science Source

5) ZEPHYR / Science Source

6) (Both)  BSIP / Science Source

7) Girand / Science Source

8) Stocktrek Images / Science Source

9) Barry Slaven / Medical Images

10) ISM / BARRAQUER, Barcelona

11) Steve Gschmeissner / Science Source  (inset), Living Art Enterprises / Science Source  (background)

12) PIXOLOGICSTUDIO / Science Source

13) SPL / Science Source

American Academy of Dermatology: “Different kinds of pimples,” “What can clear severe acne?”

American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus: “Chalazion.”

American Pediatric Surgical Association: “Urachal Cysts.”

American Society for Surgery of The Hand: “Ganglion Cysts. ”

Cleveland Clinic: “Spermatocele,” “Sebaceous Cysts,” “Breast Cysts,” “What is a Baker’s cyst?”

Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Sebaceous Cysts.”

Mayo Clinic: “Pilonidal cyst.”

Merck Manual: “Tapeworm Infection,” “Bartholin Gland Cysts.”

Michigan Medicine Kellogg Eye Center: “Chalazion and Stye.”

National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences: “Urachal cyst.”

St. Louis Children’s Hospital: “Dermoid Cyst in Children.”

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Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Stages, and Treatment

Written by Katherine Kam

• What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
• Causes
• Symptoms
• Common Sites
• Diagnosis
• Questions for Your Doctor
• Stages
• Treatment
• Lifestyle Changes
• Complications
• Outlook
• More

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes painful bumps under your skin in the hair roots and/or near some of your sweat glands. It’s also known as acne inversa.

The bumps can get infected. When that happens, pockets form under your skin and fill with pus. They can smell bad when they break open. They can also leave scars.

There’s no cure for HS, but treatments and lifestyle changes can bring some relief and cut down on flare-ups.

Because this condition lasts a long time, it can be frustrating, and it can take an emotional toll on you. Make sure you get the support you need.

Doctors aren’t sure what causes hidradenitis suppurativa, but it’s probably due to a combination of genes, hormones, and the environment. 

It’s more common in women than in men. It’s also more likely if you’re overweight, if you smoke, and if you’ve had acne. About a third of people who get HS have a relative with it.

The skin problems start when hair follicles get blocked. You often get the first symptoms in your teens or 20s.

You don’t get HS because you don’t wash enough, because you use deodorants or powders, or because you shave your underarms. You also can’t catch it from someone else or give it to another person.

HS usually affects both sides of your body. You can get the bumps in one place or in several areas at once.

The first warning sign might be a single painful bump that gets inflamed. It can last days or months. You could have repeated outbreaks of a single bump in the same location or the same general area.

Besides turning into pockets of pus, the bumps can be itchy. Your skin might have small pitted areas with blackheads.

Some people get tunnels under their skin, called sinus tracts, which connect different areas of HS outbreaks.

The bumps and leaky pockets can go away and come back. In severe cases, they don’t fully heal.

The blockages usually happen in areas where you have hair or where your skin rubs together, such as:

• Under your arms
• In your groin
• Between your buttocks
• Between your thighs
• Under your breasts
• In the folds of your stomach
• On the nape of your neck
• Behind your ears

Your doctor will check your skin and make a diagnosis based on where the bumps and pockets are and how often you have them.

They may also ask you things like:

• How long ago did your symptoms begin?
• Are they painful?
• Have you had these symptoms before?
• Have any close relatives had this problem?

You probably won’t have tests unless your doctor needs to rule out other kinds of infections. Then, they’ll take a sample of pus and send it to a lab for testing.

• How mild or severe is my hidradenitis suppurativa?
• What treatments are available? Which do you recommend?
• Should I take an antibiotic? What about other medications?
• Could these medications cause side effects?
• Will I need surgery?
• What lifestyle changes should I make to improve my illness?
• Should I lose weight?
• If my symptoms get worse, when should I call you?
• Will the disorder go away on its own?

HS is divided into three stages, based on how severe it is, called Hurley stages.

• Hurley stage I: A single or multiple isolated bumps with no sinus tracts
• Hurley stage II: Multiple bumps with some sinus tracts and scarring
• Hurley stage III: Multiple bumps with a lot of sinus tracts and scars, involving an entire area of your body

Your treatment will be based on how severe your case is. You and your doctor might have to try multiple treatments to find the one that works best for you.

Treatments include:

Warm compresses. You might try this first if your case is mild. Run a clean washcloth under hot water and hold it on your skin for 10 minutes.

NSAIDs(nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These over-the-counter medicines can ease your pain and help manage swelling. They include:

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen

Antibiotics. These medications fight infections. You can swallow them as a pill, or you can use a cream, ointment, cleanser, wash, or gel on your skin.

At first, you may use doxycycline or minocycline for 2 to 3 months. If that doesn’t help, your doctor may suggest a combination of clindamycin and rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane).

Corticosteroids. Your doctor injects these medicines into the bumps. They can ease inflammation, pain, and swelling. You usually get these shots once a month for up to 3 months. If your case is severe, your doctor may recommend that you take steroid pills by mouth.

Oral retinoids. Your doctor may suggest a retinoid medication in a pill, such as acitretin (Soriatane) or isotretinoin (Accutane). Both can improve severe cases of HS.

Topical resorcinol. This is a cream that you put on inflamed areas of your skin. It has chemicals that peel the skin.

Hormone therapy. Some women find that their condition gets better if they take birth control pills or a drug called spironolactone.

Biologics. These medications work on your immune system, your body’s defense system against germs. You take them by getting a shot, either at the doctor’s office or at home. Or you may need to get the meds through an IV in your veins. This is done at a clinic or hospital.

These drugs include:

• Adalimumab (Humira). This medicine is the only one approved by the FDA to treat HS.
• Infliximab (Remicade). The FDA hasn’t approved this for HS, but doctors still use it.
• Anakinra, canakinumab, and ustekinumab. These medications may help some people with severe or hard-to-treat HS. Researchers are studying how well they work.

Biologics can clear up HS for a long time, but they can also have serious side effects, so doctors use them only for severe cases.

Other medications. These include:

• Metformin (Glucophage). Doctors use this to treat adult-onset diabetes and metabolic syndrome. It may also help patients with HS.
• Methotrexate (Xatmep). It is a pill, shot, or IV that controls the inflammation of psoriasis and other medical conditions, including some cancers. It works on your immune system and may help control HS in some people.

Surgery. If your bumps grow deep into your skin, you might have a surgical procedure. If you’re having problems in a small area, your doctor can cut open pockets to drain pus. This gives you short-term relief.

In a procedure called deroofing, your doctor turns deep, painful bumps and pockets into scars that won’t hurt. It’s an option if you have painful bumps that come back over and over.

Another type of surgery involves cutting out skin in the problem spots. Afterward, your doctor will do a skin graft. They take skin from another part of your body and use it to cover the area where you had the operation.

Laser surgery is another option to clear new, deep bumps. It destroys hair follicles, the shafts in your skin where hair grows. You may need several treatments.

Surgery can help with stubborn or severe cases of HS, but for some people, it may come back in the same area or somewhere else.

Try these tips to make your HS less severe and slow outbreaks.

Lose extra weight. This can ease your symptoms by making your skin rub together less.

Quit smoking. Not only does this cut your risk of cancer and heart disease, it can make your HS less severe. Talk to your doctor about programs that can help you break the habit.

Don’t shave trouble spots. This can keep you from irritating your skin. Ask your dermatologist about other ways to get rid of unwanted hair.

Wear loose-fitting clothes. Outfits that are tight can cause your skin to rub, making your flare-ups worse.

Stay cool. You can get flare-ups when you get too warm and sweat. But be careful about using deodorants, which can sometimes irritate your skin. Ask your dermatologist for suggestions about one that won’t cause problems.

Keep clean. Wash HS areas gently every day with your fingers. Scrubbing with a washcloth or brush can irritate your skin. Use an antibacterial soap, which can help get rid of odor.

Use the right bandage. If a pocket is leaking, cover it with a bandage that doesn’t stick to the bump. Use plenty of petroleum jelly on the gauze that covers the area. Avoid using adhesive tape as much as possible.

HS that is severe or isn’t treated can have complications over time, including:

• Deep pockets of infection (abscesses)
• Trouble moving because of scar tissue
• Hollow passages inside your body (fistulas)
• Lymph node problems
• Arthritis
• A skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma
• Depression and isolation

HS can last for years, but early treatment can help you feel better and lower the risk of flare-ups.

In severe cases, hidradenitis suppurativa can get worse and cause scars. Surgery can help, although the disease comes back about one-third of the time. It’s still important to keep up with lifestyle changes that can make you feel better.

Turn to people you trust to give you the backing you need while you get treated. You might join a support group where you can talk freely with people who understand your situation. Ask your doctor about how to find a group near you.

Talk to your close family and friends about your condition, or consider seeing a professional counselor. They can help make sure you don’t let your skin problems keep you from enjoying an active social life.

You can learn more about your condition on the website of the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation.

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Furuncle (boil) – symptoms, causes, signs and methods of treatment in adults in “SM-Clinic”

This disease is treated by a Dermatologist
, Surgeon

• About the disease
• Types of boils
• Symptoms of a boil
• Causes of boil development
• Diagnostics
• Expert opinion
• Treatment of furunculosis
• Prevention
• Rehabilitation
• Questions and answers
• Doctors

About the disease

A furuncle is also called a boil. It occurs more often in adulthood. Men are affected somewhat more often than women. The main peak of incidence falls on the autumn and spring periods, when the body’s defenses weaken.

Unlike ostiofolliculitis and folliculitis, the formation of a furuncle is accompanied by the involvement of the surrounding tissue in the inflammatory process. This is due to the severe course of the disease.

On places devoid of hair (palms and palmar surface of the fingers, soles) boils do not develop. Most often they occur on areas of the skin that are subject to contamination (forearms, back of the hand) and friction (back of the neck, lower back, gluteal region, thighs).

Types of boils

Depending on the number of formations, single and multiple boils are distinguished. In the latter case, the disease is called furunculosis.

In the process of development, pathology passes through three successive stages:

• infiltrative: accompanied by tissue infiltration;
• purulent-necrotic: characterized by purulent fusion of the central part of the boil and the formation of a purulent-necrotic core;
• healing stage: begins from the moment of spontaneous or artificial opening of the abscess and lasts until the formation of a scar.

Symptoms of a boil

At the initial stage of the development of the disease, the patient feels slight itching and tingling. On the 1st-2nd day, a formation appears that protrudes conically above the skin. The tissues turn red and become painful when touched. As the boil matures, a head appears on its top – a small accumulation of pus with a black dot in the center.

On the 3-7th day in the form of a rod, together with the remnants of the hair, they are excreted with pus. The resulting wound is cleaned, filled with granulation tissue and healed. The swelling around it gradually decreases, the pain disappears. A small, whitish, somewhat retracted scar remains at the site of inflammation.

Multiple lesions of boils that appear simultaneously or sequentially one after another in different parts of the body – called furunculosis. A disease that lasts with small remissions for several years is considered chronic, relapsing.

Furuncle usually does not cause significant disturbances in well-being. With the defeat of a significant amount of tissue, symptoms of intoxication appear: weakness, headaches, fever. The intensity of pain depends on the location of the formation. In the face area (lips, forehead), as well as on the scrotum, the formation of a boil is accompanied by swelling of the surrounding tissues, which is explained by the looseness of the subcutaneous tissue.

Causes of the development of a boil

The main cause of the development of a furuncle is the defeat of the hair follicle or its surrounding tissues by Staphylococcus aureus, rarely white. An important factor is also a decrease in general or local immunity against the background of chronic diseases, metabolic disorders, and infections. Pathology occurs especially often in patients with diabetes mellitus, obesity, chronic liver and kidney damage, oncological diseases, etc. Infection of tissues often occurs against the background of skin damage: scratches, cuts, abrasions, constant exposure to sweat or purulent discharge (from the nose, ears).

The causes of localized furunculosis are most often incorrect methods of therapy and ignoring the doctor’s recommendations (use of compresses, undertreatment of residual compaction, washing the place where the elements appear).

Get advice

If you experience these symptoms, we recommend that you make an appointment with your doctor. Timely consultation will prevent negative consequences for your health.

You can find out more about the disease, prices for treatment and sign up for a consultation with a specialist by phone:

+7 (495) 292-39-72

Request a call back
Book online

Why SM-Clinic?

1

Treatment is carried out in accordance with clinical guidelines

2

Comprehensive assessment of the nature of the disease and treatment prognosis

3

Modern diagnostic equipment and own laboratory

9000 2 4

High level of service and balanced pricing policy

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of boils is not difficult. During a visual examination of the patient, a dermatologist discovers a characteristic formation. Its appearance allows you to assess the stage of development of the disease. During the conversation, the doctor determines the possible cause of the development of boils, identifies risk factors. For an accurate diagnosis and determination of the pathogen, bakposev of the discharge is prescribed. In case of multiple lesions, additional diagnostics is carried out:

• general and biochemical blood test;
• immunogram;
• assessment of hormone levels;
• examination by ENT, endocrinologist and other specialists;
• examination of internal organs, paranasal sinuses, lungs, etc. depending on the specific clinical situation.

Expert opinion

Furuncle is a rather serious disease, which should be treated with great care. In no case should you self-medicate: you should not make compresses, use various ointments – in most cases this leads to the spread of the inflammatory process.

A complication of a boil can be lymphadenitis and lymphangitis (damage to the lymphatic vessels and nodes). Of particular danger are rapidly progressing acute thrombophlebitis and sepsis.

Acute thrombophlebitis usually develops with boils located near the large saphenous veins, and sepsis – with boils of the face. They are often the result of attempts to squeeze out the contents of the boil, cutting it off during shaving, trauma during massage. The prognosis for these complications is very serious.

Omarova Andzhelika Mutaevna

Coloproctologist, surgeon, Ph.D.

Treatment of furunculosis

Treatment of furuncle is only surgical, because no other therapy will be successful if the focus of purulent inflammation is not removed or opened and drained in a timely manner.

The opening of the boil is usually performed under local anesthesia and is painless for the patient. At the same time, antibiotic therapy, means for correcting immunity and eliminating background pathologies, if any, are prescribed.

Simple (uncomplicated) lesions can be treated on an outpatient basis and do not require hospitalization. But in case of a severe course, if the patient develops swelling of the soft tissues of the cheek, lip or eye, urgent hospitalization is necessary in the surgical department to constantly monitor the development of the process and prevent complications.

Strict bed rest and appropriate therapy are prescribed for high fever.

Prevention

To minimize the risk of developing boils, it is necessary to regularly cleanse the skin of impurities and fully treat any tissue damage. People with hyperhidrosis and/or excess sebum need to pay special attention to hygiene. General measures are also important: proper nutrition, a healthy lifestyle, timely treatment of acute and chronic diseases.

Rehabilitation

After opening an uncomplicated boil, the patient goes home after 1-2. In the next 2 weeks, he needs to regularly visit a doctor for dressings, take prescribed medications. It is strictly forbidden to play sports, swim in open water or pools, overheat.

Questions and Answers

No. Self-medication and the use of folk remedies can cause complications.

Yes, if a purulent focus is located on the face, the infection can go to the meninges.

Gostishchev Victor Kuzmich. Clinical operative purulent surgery. Guide for doctors. GEOTAR-Media, 2016

Rodionov Anatoly Nikolaevich, Sydikov Akmal Abdikaharovich, Zaslavsky Denis Vladimirovich. Clinical dermatology. Illustrated guide for doctors. GEOTAR-Media, 2022

Nikolsky V. Yu., Imbryakov K. V. Furuncles and carbuncles of the face // Russian Dental Journal. 2013. No. 5.

Okulich V.K., Fedyanin S.D. RATIONAL USE OF ANTIBACTERIAL DRUGS IN PATIENTS WITH PURULENT WOUNDS, FURUNCULOSIS, BOILS AND CARBUNCULES // Bulletin of the Voronezh State Medical University. 2003. No. 4.

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Diseases referred by the Surgeon

Soft tissue abscess
liver abscess
Appendicitis
Ascites
Atheroma
femoral hernia
Crohn’s disease
Gangrene
soft tissue hematoma
Giant cell tumor of bone
Hygroma
festering wounds
Hernia
Hernia of the white line of the abdomen
hiatal hernia
Diastasis rectus abdominis
Intestinal diverticulosis
Cholelithiasis
Keratoma
liver cyst
pancreatic cyst
salivary gland cyst
Neck cyst
stab wound
stab wound
Lipoma
Mechanical jaundice
Bowel obstruction
burns
Oleogranuloma
kidney tumor
Acute pancreatitis
Felon
Pancreatic necrosis
Inguinal hernia
Peritonitis
Barrett’s esophagus
Postoperative hernia
Umbilical hernia
Cancer of the extrahepatic bile ducts
Stomach cancer
gallbladder cancer
bowel cancer
adrenal cancer
Parathyroid Cancer
Liver cancer
Esophageal carcinoma
colon cancer
thyroid cancer
Fistula of the gallbladder
Seroma
Thyroiditis
Intestinal injury
vein thrombosis
Thrombophlebitis
Furunculosis
cholestasis
Cholecystitis
Chronic cholecystitis
Esophageal ulcer
Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum

Diseases referred to Dermatologist

Acne (pimples)
Allergic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis
Warts
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
Ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis)
Herpes (herpes virus 1, 2 types)
Hyperhidrosis (sweating)
Foot hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
Hyperkeratosis
Hyperkeratosis of the nails
Nail fungus (onychomycosis)
foot fungus
demodicosis
Dermatitis
Nail deformation
diabetic foot
Ichthyosis
Keratoma
warts
molluscum contagiosum
contact dermatitis
Hives
Couperose
Lichen
calluses
corns
Nevuses (moles)
Neurodermatitis
Onychodystrophy
Onycholysis
Rash under the breast
Pityriasis versicolor
Papillomas
Inguinal epidermophytosis
Pediculosis
Skin pigmentation
plantar warts
Loss of skin tone and elasticity
Prickly heat
Psoriasis
Pemphigus
Rosacea
Seborrheic dermatitis
seborrhea
Cracked feet
Acne
Folliculitis
Furunculosis
Scabies
Eczema

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Furuncle — Pediatric maxillofacial surgery surrounding tissues (sebaceous gland, dermis , subcutaneous fat), a severe form of deep staphyloderma.

This disease is caused by staphylococci, streptococci or their association. With frequent unregulated use of antibiotics, the development of a disease caused by gram-negative flora is possible. The most severe forms of the disease develop during the vegetation of staphylococci.

Factors predisposing to the development of the disease are changes in the hormonal, immune status against the background of adverse factors of various nature: ecology, chronic systemic diseases (diabetes mellitus), age, poor personal hygiene, malnutrition, beriberi, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic infections.

Against the background of health, the disease often appears during puberty with hyperproduction of the sebaceous glands.

If several boils occur in one or more areas of the body in a short period of time, one can speak of furunculosis. Both in the event of the occurrence of single boils, and a multitude in a short period of time, it is necessary to consult an immunologist, a pediatrician, an endocrinologist.

The most common localization of boils in the maxillofacial area and neck: nasolabial triangle (“death triangle”, upper lip area), chin area and subchin area, lower lip, nose area (wings, root), buccal and infraorbital areas, back of the neck.

Patient K., 11 years old. Before treatment. DS: Boils in the chin area.

The onset of the disease is acute. A “pimple” appears on the skin – an abscess (pustula) at the mouth of the hair follicle. As inflammation develops, the skin turns red, swells (edema, infiltration of tissues by leukocytes), when the sebaceous gland, hair shaft, follicle are involved in inflammation, these structures become necrotic and pus forms. The skin becomes thinner over the inflammatory focus, perforates, the necrotic rod comes out (dead hair, sebaceous gland, hair follicle), pus pours out. It is at this stage of the development of the inflammatory process that most patients try to squeeze out the purulent contents.

Patient K. 11 years old. After treatment. DS: Boils in the chin area.

But this type of inflammation, unlike a classic abscess, does not have a reliable wall consisting of protective cells of the body that limits the focus of purulent-necrotic inflammation. When squeezing out a “pimple”, this wall can be destroyed and inflammatory agents can spread to the surrounding tissues, which leads to further spread and aggravation of the course of inflammation, up to death. Squeezing out the boil is meaningless due to the deep damage to the fiber.

Furuncle in the area of ​​the upper lip, phlebitis of the facial vein on the left.

The disease is accompanied by a reaction to inflammation of the regional lymph nodes. During the inflammation of the hair follicle, there are several stages that require different methods of treatment. If the phenomena of infiltration and edema without suppuration prevail in a generally satisfactory condition, then conservative anti-inflammatory therapy is carried out. However, most often, patients entering the hospital already have an abscessing form of inflammation.

Furuncle in the area of ​​the upper lip, phlebitis of the facial vein on the left. After treatment

Why are boils of the head and neck dangerous in children?

Due to the abundant blood supply to the maxillofacial region, the presence of many vascular anastomoses, the peculiar structure of the dermis and subcutaneous fat in children, the immune system, the site of the boil, the course of inflammation in the hair follicle can be complicated. Possible complications: phlegmon of the surrounding soft tissues, inflammation of the regional lymph nodes and vessels (lymphangitis and phlebitis), erysipelas of the skin, inflammation of the oral mucosa. The most severe, common complications of a boil: thrombophlebitis of the veins, thrombosis of the cavernous sinus, meningitis, sepsis. The prognosis for the development of these complications is unfavorable. Therefore, children with boils in the face are subject to immediate hospitalization and require complex treatment.

Also, the course of this inflammatory process has similar features with other diseases. To make a correct diagnosis and start adequate treatment, it is necessary to diagnose a boil with anthrax, leishmaniasis, non-odontogenic abscess of the face and neck, folliculitis.

In the event of the occurrence and course of this disease, it is necessary to contact a maxillofacial surgeon to provide qualified assistance: surgical treatment and antibacterial and anti-inflammatory therapy.

Prevention: proper hygiene of the skin of the face and body; timely treatment of acne and purulent folliculitis; hardening; balanced regular meals.

Carbuncle

Carbuncle (Carbunculus) – acute purulent-necrotic inflammation of several adjacent hair follicles, skin, subcutaneous fat, rapidly spreading in depth and width, the most severe form of deep staphyloderma. The pathomorphological picture is a pronounced inflammation of the follicles and adjacent tissues with the spread of the process deep into, sometimes including the fascia. Necrotic changes predominate.

Carbuncle appears more violently than furuncle. Locally there is a pronounced and widespread infiltration and edema, significant pain, congestive hyperemia. Several boils appear on a limited area of ​​the skin, which merge with each other as a result of inflammation. Against the background of the described changes, purulent plugs are determined, from under which a purulent-bloody fluid is released.