Developer site: The content shown here is test data.

Health Dictionary AI Health Chat Find an Online Doctor
A serene Zen garden with raked sand and smooth stones, symbolising clarity and calm

Health Dictionary

Back to skin conditions

Boil pathophysiology

Introduction

Overview

Overview

Boils (furuncles) are a localized deep suppurative necrotizing form of folliculitis which involve the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common causative agent. Following an abrasion or cut, the pathogen uses the wound site to invade and colonize the hair follicle. This leads to the formation of tender, erythematous, perifollicular nodule. The boil later becomes painful and fluctuant leading to discharge of pus and formation of necrotic plugs, which may leave a scar.[1]

Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology

Pathogenesis

  • A group of furuncles coalesce to form a carbuncle.

Schematic of Pathogenesis

Associated Conditions

Gross Pathology

On gross pathology, characteristic findings of boils include firm, tender, red, dome shaped nodules, which progress to fluctuant, pus-filled, and painful lesions. Boils may vary in size.

Microscopic histopathological analysis

On microscopic histopathological analysis, characteristic findings of boils include:

  • Superficial (primarily involving the infandibulum)
  • Deep

Examples of Gross Pathology

The following are images associated with boil:

References

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Ibler KS, Kromann CB (2014). “Recurrent furunculosis – challenges and management: a review”. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 7: 59–64. doi:10.2147/CCID.S35302. PMC 3934592. PMID 24591845.

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Yamuna Kondapally, M.B.B.S[2]