Carbuncle (pathology)
Cluster of boils caused by bacterial infection
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Through Boil (infection), Bacteria and Infection
Signs and symptoms
A carbuncle is a cluster of several boils, which is typically filled with purulent exudate (dead neutrophils, phagocytized bacteria, and other cellular components). Fluid may drain freely from the carbuncle, or intervention involving an incision and drainage procedure may be needed. Carbuncles may develop anywhere, but they are most common on the back and the nape of the neck.
A carbuncle is palpable and can range in size from as small as a pea to as large as a golf ball. The surrounding area is indurated. Later, skin on the centre of the carbuncle softens and peripheral satellite vesicles appear; these rupture, discharging pus, and give rise to cribriform appearance. As the impending infection develops, itching may occur. There may be localized erythema or skin irritation, and the area may be painful when touched. Sometimes more severe symptoms may occur, such as fatigue, fever, chills, and general malaise as the body fights the infection.
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Cause
Infections by bacteria, commonly Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. Because they are an accumulation of boils they are more likely to occur if one has a long-term condition that affects one's immune system, such as diabetes or HIV. They are also more likely to occur in middle-aged men, people who have been in contact with someone with boils or a carbuncle, people with some skin conditions like eczema, those who take medication like steroids and people with obesity or malnutrition.
This infection will typically be caused by a small tear on the skin, which can be caused by an insect bite. Because the bacteria are commonly found on the skin they will enter through these small openings and then start an infection; once there is a build up of pus from the immune system's response, a boil and then a carbuncle will form.
Society and culture
Etymology
The word is believed to have originated from the Latin: carbunculus, originally a small coal; diminutive of carbon-, carbo: charcoal or ember, but also a carbuncle stone, "precious stones of a red or fiery colour", usually garnets.
Metaphor: the "monstrous carbuncle"
In 1984, Charles III, then Prince of Wales, described the proposed Sainsbury Wing extension to the National Gallery in London as a "monstrous carbuncle on the face of a much-loved and elegant friend", a term he has used since to describe other pieces of architecture.