Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle
These are painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin caused by bacterial infections of hair follicles or oil glands.
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A cutaneous abscess is a localized collection of pus—a thick, yellowish fluid made of white blood cells and dead bacteria—that forms deep within the skin. It usually starts as a tender, red, and warm area that grows into a swollen bump as the body tries to contain the infection.
These infections often start at a hair follicle. A furuncle, commonly called a boil, is a single infected hair follicle. A carbuncle is a cluster of several furuncles that have joined together under the skin, creating a larger, deeper, and more painful area of infection.
Common Symptoms
- A firm, round, and tender lump that feels warm to the touch.
- The center of the lump may turn white or yellow as pus builds up.
- Pain that often increases as the pressure from the pus grows.
- Redness and swelling in the skin surrounding the bump.
- Possible fever or chills if the infection begins to spread.