A boil, or skin abscess, is a localized infection deep in the skin. A boil generally starts as a reddened, tender area. Over time, the area becomes firm and hard. Eventually, the center of the abscess softens and becomes filled with white cells that the body sends to fight the infection. This collection of white cells is known as pus. Finally, the pus "forms a head" and drains out through the skin. Skin abscesses may occur anywhere on the body. They affect people of all ages.

Types of Boils

Several different types of boils are:

Furuncle
Cystic acne
Hidradenitis suppurativa
Pilonidal cyst

Furuncle - This is an abscess in the skin caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. A furuncle can have one or more openings onto the skin and may be associated with a fever or chills.

Cystic acne - This is a type of abscess that is formed when oil ducts become clogged and infected. Cystic acne affects deeper skin tissue that the more superficial inflammation from common acne. Cystic acne is most common on the face and typically occurs in the teenage years.

Hidradenitis suppurativa - This is an illness in which there are multiple abscesses that form under the arm pits and in the groin area. These are a result of local inflammation of the sweat glands.

Pilonidal cyst - This kind of abscess that occurs in the crease of the buttocks. Pilonidal cysts often begin as tiny areas of infection in the base of the area of skin from which hair grows (the hair follicle). With irritation from direct pressure over time the inflamed area enlarges to become a firm, painful, tender nodule making it difficult to sit without discomfort. These frequently form after long trips that involve prolonged sitting.

Causes of Boils

There are many causes of boils. Some boils can be caused by an ingrown hair. Some are caused when a localized infection causes pus and infected material to collect in the skin or subcutaneous tissue. Others, such as those of acne, are caused by plugged sweat glands that become infected. Skin abscesses may follow a bacterial infection, commonly an infection with a bacteria called staphylococcus.

Symptoms of Boils

There are many different symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms are:

The skin around the boil becomes infected. It turns red, painful, warm, and swollen.
There maybe localized swelling, redness and induration.
More boils may appear around the original one.
Fever

Treatment of Boils

Treatment involves incision and drainage. This procedure involves the use of an injectable local anesthetic with subsequent incision of the abscess, allowing it to drain. Frequently, a packing of gauze is left in its place for 1-2 days. The packing is then removed, allowing the abscess cavity to heal (and close) over the course of several weeks. Soapy tub soaks to this area after the packing is removed can help keep the cavity clean. Antibiotics may be indicated in some cases.

Prevention tips

Carefully wash clothes, bed linen, and towels of a family member who is infected with boils.
Clean and treat minor skin wounds.
Practice good personal hygiene.
Stay as healthy as possible.

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