What kind of disease is a boil? How to treat furunculosis: drugs and folk remedies. What is furunculosis

Furuncle and carbuncle are manifestations of deep staphyloderma. The diseases are characterized by purulent-necrotic inflammation localized in the hair follicle and surrounding tissues. Inflammation is always limited due to the development of granulation tissue. The appearance of several boils at the same time or the sequential appearance of one boil after another is called furunculosis.

When several hair follicles are involved in the inflammatory process and inflammation spreads into the subcutaneous fatty tissue, a carbuncle develops. The most dangerous is the localization of inflammatory elements on the head, face, nose and upper lip. Treatment of boils and carbuncles should be strictly individual. In mild forms of boils, it is enough to symptomatic therapy. For moderate forms of boils and carbuncles, surgical treatment is used.

Rice. 1. Furuncle and carbuncle are a manifestation of deep staphyloderma.

Furuncle

A furuncle (in the old days called a boil) is a complication of staphylococcal folliculitis ( purulent inflammation hair follicle). Not only the pilosebaceous sac, but also the surrounding tissues are involved in the inflammatory process. Acute purulent-necrotic inflammation ends with the rejection of molten (purulent) masses with the formation of scar tissue.

Rice. 2. With a boil (picture on the left), not only the pilosebaceous sac, but also the surrounding tissue is involved in the inflammatory process. With a carbuncle, the inflammatory process involves several hair follicles (picture on the right).

Reasons for the development of a boil

The cause of the development of a boil is white and aureus staphylococcus.

Rice. 3. In the photo, staphylococci are white (left) and golden (right).

Contribute to the development of the disease:

  • damage skin(scratching and abrasions);
  • increased secretion of sweat and sebaceous glands;
  • the use of warm compresses and poultices during the initial period of infection;
  • sudden hypothermia or overheating of the body;
  • consuming large amounts of carbohydrates and diabetes mellitus create favorable conditions for the development of infection (carbohydrates are a good breeding ground for pyogenic microbes);
  • malnutrition (insufficient amounts of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and microelements), immunosuppressive diseases (AIDS, cancer, etc.), severe somatic pathology and long-term use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants lead to decreased immunity;

Rice. 4. In the photo on the left is inflammation of the upper part of the follicle (ostiofolliculitis), on the right is inflammation of the entire follicle (folliculitis). Diseases often precede the development of boils.

Clinical picture of a boil

Boils develop on those areas of the skin where hair grows - on the face, neck (back surface), forearms, thighs, lower back and buttocks.

A boil on the face, nose, head and upper lip is the most dangerous location. Thrombophlebitis of the facial veins, the development of purulent meningitis and septicemia are serious complications of the disease.

The general condition of the patient remains satisfactory with single boils. Furunculosis and multiple boils are often accompanied by fever, malaise and headache. In severe cases, lymphangitis and lymphadenitis develop (increase in regional lymph nodes).

Rice. 5. The photo shows a boil on the eyelids.

Rice. 6. The photo shows a boil on the neck and leg.

Symptoms and signs of a boil

  • begins to develop with ostiofolliculitis. Small, pinhead-sized pustules form at the mouths of hair follicles.
  • Next, the inflammatory process spreads to 2/3 of the follicle (folliculitis develops).
  • With deep folliculitis, inflammation affects the entire follicle.
  • With boils, inflammation spreads beyond the follicle. In this case, redness appears around the inflamed follicle, which over time acquires a purplish-blue color, swelling and soreness, often of a pulsating nature. The infiltrate can reach the size of a walnut or more. The boil can be single. Sometimes several boils develop at the same time.
  • Over time, a necrotic core with a pustule on top appears in the center. There is purulent melting of tissue around the necrotic core.
    When the pustule is opened, thick gray-green pus is released and a necrotic core is visible.
  • After cleansing, the wound looks like an ulcer with crater-shaped edges. The formed cavity is quickly filled with granulations.
  • The defect heals with a scar.

The duration of the disease is 1 - 2 weeks or more.

Rice. 7. The photo shows a boil on the buttock and finger.

Rice. 8. In the photo there is a boil on auricle(left) and a boil in the nose (right).

Complications of a boil

  • Particularly dangerous is the localization of the boil on the face, lips and nose due to the risk of developing purulent thrombophlebitis of the facial veins, inflammation of the meninges (purulent meningitis), sepsis and septicemia.
  • Inflammation lymphatic vessels(lymphangitis) and lymph nodes.

Traumatization and squeezing out boils are triggers for the development of a malignant boil

Rice. 9. In the photo, a boil on the face is the most dangerous location.

Rice. 10. The photo shows a boil on the nose.

Rice. 11. The photo shows a boil on the lip.

Furunculosis

IN last years There is an increase in skin diseases of a viral and bacterial nature. Chronic recurrent furunculosis is one of them.

What is furunculosis

Furunculosis is infection, characterized by the appearance of several boils simultaneously or the sequential appearance of one boil after another. Furunculosis can be limited or widespread.

  • With acute furunculosis, several boils appear and develop simultaneously.
  • With chronic furunculosis, boils appear one after another. Upon examination, you can see inflammatory infiltrates at different stages of development. The disease drags on for weeks, months and years. Tolerance to the therapy with antibacterial drugs is noted. Furunculosis complicates the course of many skin diseases.

Rice. 12. The photo shows several boils on the neck and back.

Causes of furunculosis

The main cause of furunculosis is Staphylococcus aureus. It causes disease in 60 - 97% of patients. In other cases, the cause of the disease is epidermal staphylococci, group A and B streptococci and other types of bacteria.

IN Lately Staphylococci resistant to a number of antibiotics are increasingly being grown from lesions, about 90% of which are staphylococci resistant to penicillin and ampicillin, and about 19% to erythromycin.

The presence of Staphylococcus aureus on the skin and weakened immunity are the main factors in the development of furunculosis.

  • The presence of foci of chronic infection in patients with furunculosis is recorded in 75 - 90% of cases. The most common pathology of the ENT organs (tonsillitis, sinusitis and pharyngitis) and gastrointestinal tract(chronic gastroduodenitis and cholecystitis). Dysbacteriosis contributes to the development of furunculosis.
  • In 40% of cases, diseases are registered in patients with furunculosis thyroid gland, gonads and diabetes mellitus.
  • Consumption of large amounts of carbohydrates and diabetes mellitus contribute to the development of furunculosis. Increased quantity Blood sugar is a good breeding ground for staphylococci.
  • In 39% of cases, the patient’s body is sensitized to different types allergens.
  • The development of furunculosis is caused by a violation of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism and the development of hypo- and avitaminosis. Furunculosis often occurs in weakened, exhausted patients suffering from severe somatic pathology. Anemia, chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, immunodeficiency conditions (HIV infection and oncology) are the main ones.
  • Constant physical and mental stress contributes to the development of furunculosis.

Rice. 13. In the photo there is furunculosis. Numerous boils on different stages development.

Immune status disorders in furunculosis

The human immune system is designed to protect the body when in contact with infectious agents. The causative agents of furunculosis cause a whole “cascade” of protective reactions, most of which are disrupted during the disease.

  • Up to 70% of patients with chronic furunculosis have impaired phagocytosis (capture, absorption and destruction of pathogenic microorganisms).
  • A low level of iron in the blood serum causes a decrease in the processes of killing (destruction) of pathogenic microorganisms.
  • In the blood of 43% of patients with chronic furunculosis, a decrease in the level of T and B lymphocytes is recorded.
  • In the blood of 60% of patients with chronic furunculosis, there is a decrease in the level of immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM).

Severity of furunculosis

Mild severity furunculosis is characterized by the presence of single boils. The inflammatory reaction is moderate. Relapses occur 1-2 times a year. There are no signs of intoxication. Peripheral lymph nodes enlarge during exacerbations. Indicators of immune status in this category of patients in 70% of cases remain within normal limits.

Moderate severity Furunculosis is characterized by the presence of single large boils or multiple boils. The inflammatory reaction proceeds rapidly. Relapses occur up to 3 times a year. During exacerbations, inflammation of the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes is noted. Often the disease occurs with symptoms of intoxication. Violations of the cellular and humoral immunity are noted.

Severe severity The disease is characterized by the presence of multiple boils with a continuously relapsing course. The disease is accompanied by severe intoxication. Patients experience weakness, malaise, headache, fever and sweating. Violations of the cellular and humoral immunity are significant.

Rice. 14. In the photo there is furunculosis.

Complications of furunculosis

The penetration of bacteria into the blood causes bacteremia, which is a serious complication of furunculosis. Bacteria settle in internal organs, causing endocarditis, osteomyelitis, pneumonia, meningitis, kidney inflammation, etc. Septic shock often ends in the death of the patient. With furunculosis, lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes are often affected.

Differential diagnosis of furunculosis

To prescribe adequate treatment for furunculosis, the method should be used differential diagnosis with diseases such as pseudofurunculosis, hidradenitis,

Rice. 15. The photo shows multiple abscesses in children (Finger's pseudofurunculosis). The disease occurs mainly in children under 1 year of age. The disease causes pustules and multiple abscesses associated with the child's eccrine sweat glands. When an abscess is opened, liquid pus is released. There is no necrotic core.

Rice. 16. In the photo, hidradenitis is an inflammation of the apocrine sweat glands. The armpits, pubis and perineum are common locations of the disease. When abscesses open, thick, creamy pus is released. There is no necrotic core.

Carbuncle

When several hair follicles are involved in the inflammatory process and inflammation spreads into the subcutaneous fatty tissue, a carbuncle develops. The name carbuncle comes from the Latin carbo - coal. In Rus', the disease was called ognevik or uglevik.

The localization of the process and the stages of development of the carbuncle are similar to those of a boil. Golden and white staphylococci are the main culprits of the disease. Malfunctions contribute to the development of carbuncles immune system, which occurs in patients with severe somatic pathology, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypovitaminosis and hypothermia.

Rice. 17. With a boil (photo on the left), one pustule forms on the surface of the infiltrate, with a carbuncle - several (photo on the right).

Rice. 18. The photo shows carbuncles on the chin and neck in the collar area.

Signs and symptoms of carbuncle

The disease occurs with severe symptoms of intoxication: chills, elevated body temperature, weakness, loss of appetite and headaches; vomiting and loss of consciousness are less common.

Local symptoms:

  • Initially, the skin over the affected surface becomes purplish-red. There is severe pain.
  • After a few days, several pustules appear on the surface of the skin.
  • The thinned skin breaks out in several places and resembles a “sieve.” Thick pus oozes from the holes.
  • When the carbuncle is opened, an ulcerative surface with purulent discharge and several necrotic rods is exposed.
  • After the rods are rejected, a deep wound (ulcer) with a dirty gray bottom is exposed. The edges of the wound are undermined. Ulcer healing is slow. In its place, a deep star-shaped retracted scar forms.

Smear microscopy confirms the diagnosis. Culture of pus allows you to identify the pathogen and determine its resistance to antibiotics. The disease lasts from 2 to 4 weeks or more.

Rice. 19. The photo shows a carbuncle. Superficial pustules and multi-chamber abscesses are visible, on the surface of which there are numerous holes resembling a “sieve” through which pus is released.

Differential diagnosis of carbuncles

At the beginning of the disease, the picture of the carbuncle is similar to that of phlegmon. Sometimes the necrotic crust of the carbuncle makes it look like an anthrax carbuncle.

Rice. 20. In the photo on the left there is phlegmon. The disease develops as a result of the spread of infection from affected areas into the deep layers of the skin, fiber and connective tissue. With a carbuncle (photo on the right), the inflammatory process is limited. Pustules will appear on the surface of the skin, and when the abscess is opened, necrotic rods will be exposed.

Rice. 21. An anthrax ulcer has raised edges and a dark bottom (photo on the left). After opening the carbuncle, an ulcerative surface with purulent discharge and several necrotic rods is exposed. The edges of the ulcer are undermined and crater-shaped (photo on the right).

Laboratory diagnosis of boils and carbuncles

Rice. 22. Microscopy (Gram stain) reveals gram-positive cocci (often staphylococci). They are arranged in clusters resembling “bunches of grapes” (photo on the left). Colonies of pathogens are visible in the photo on the right. Cultures of pus can identify not only staphylococci, but also determine their sensitivity to antibiotics.

Treatment of boils, furunculosis and carbuncle

Treatment of boils and carbuncles should be strictly individual. For mild forms of boils, symptomatic therapy is sufficient. For moderate forms of boils and carbuncles, surgical treatment is used. Antibiotics and pathogenetic therapy agents speed up recovery. Treatment of furunculosis includes the use of specific and nonspecific agents that increase protective forces body, treatment of concomitant diseases, sanitation of foci of chronic infection and dietary nutrition.

Rice. 23. In the photo there is a boil (on the left) and a carbuncle (on the right).

Local treatment of boils

Treatment of boils during maturation

  • At the beginning of treatment, the hair in the area of ​​inflammation is cut with scissors.
  • In the period before the spontaneous opening of the boil, the skin around them is treated twice a day with a solution of 70% ethyl alcohol.
  • Keratoplasty agents are used to ripen the boil. Drugs in this group have the property of drying out tissues. By taking away water, they help slow down the processes of fermentation and decay in deep inflammatory infiltrates. The use of 20% Ichthyol ointment or pure Ichthyol is indicated. An “ichthyol cake” is applied to the affected surface twice a day (the applied ointment is covered with a thin layer of cotton wool). The procedure is carried out until the boil opens.
  • During the period of boil maturation, physiotherapy (UHF therapy, dry heat) is indicated.
  • Antibiotic therapy is used in the case of boils located on the face (nose, lips, nasolabial triangle), inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes and deteriorating general health.
  • For severe pain, novocaine blockades are used.

Rice. 24. A boil can open at any time.

Treatment of boils and carbuncles using surgical techniques

The purpose of surgery for boils and carbuncles is to open the abscess and ensure a good outflow of purulent-inflammatory exudate. After opening, the abscesses are washed with antiseptic solutions and drained. Drainage ensures unimpeded drainage of pus. For significant defects, sutures are applied.
Enzymes are widely used in the treatment of boils and carbuncles. They break down peptide bonds in protein molecules and their breakdown products, thereby accelerating the cleansing of purulent wounds.

When treating boils and carbuncles, only surgical treatment is used.

Rice. 25. The photo shows a carbuncle. The opening of the abscess is made in the form of a cross-shaped incision.

Rice. 26. Surgical opening of a carbuncle on the chin.

  • If necessary, the pustule can be opened with a sterile needle.
  • Used to disinfect surrounding tissues 2% salicylic alcohol, furacillin, 3% alcohol iodine solution or 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. The skin around the boil is rubbed in the direction from the periphery to the center of the formed ulcer.
  • To treat an opened pustule, it is recommended to use 2% alcohol solutions of aniline dyes: fucorcin, brilliant green, gentian violet, methylene blue,),2 - 5% alcohol solution of iodine, antiseptic solution "Sangviritrin" or antimicrobial agent "Eucalimin".
  • Promotes the separation of purulent contents from the wound. Ichthyola And Sodium chloride solution hypertonic. Ichthyol is applied to the area around the ulcer formed after opening. And the ulcer itself is covered with a gauze napkin soaked hypertonic solution sodium chloride.
  • If it is difficult to reject a purulent-necrotic rod, a good effect is obtained from using: 1% trypsin solution, chymopsin or chymotrypsin with novocaine or isotonic sodium chloride solution.
  • After rejection of the purulent-necrotic rod, the use of ointments with antibiotics is indicated: Fucidin. Fucicort, Bacroban, Heliomycin, Lincomycin, Tetracycline, Iruksol, Synthomycin emulsion. A good effect is achieved by using ointments such as Lincomycin or Levomycetin along with 30% or 70% dimexide solution.
  • Effective use of turundas with antimicrobial ointments Levomikol,Levosin or Tomicide.
  • After opening the abscess, the use of ultraviolet radiation is indicated.
  • Accelerates tissue regeneration Iruksol ointment, Curiosin solution, Ichthyol ointment And Levomikol.

Rice. 27. When treating boils and carbuncles, drainage ensures unimpeded drainage of pus.

Rice. 28. For severe pain, novocaine blockades are used in the treatment of boils.

Treatment of boils and carbuncles with antibiotics

Antibiotics for boils and carbuncles speed up recovery. The basis of treatment of the disease is surgical treatment.

Antibiotic therapy is used in the case of boils located on the face (nose, lips, nasolabial triangle), inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes and deteriorating general health. The risk of developing bacteremia is an absolute indication for antibiotics. This applies primarily to patients with reduced immunity.

  • Antibiotics of the penicillin group ( Cloxacillin).
  • B-lactam antibiotics ( Dicloxacillin, Amoxicillin-clavulanate).
  • Macrolides ( Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, Josamycin, Vilprafen, Klacid).
  • Tetracyclines ( Unidox-solutab, Doxycycline hydrochloride, Vibramycin).
  • Cephalosporins ( Zinnat, Cephalosporin).
  • Other antibiotics (Lincomycin, Azithromycin, Clindamycin, Rifampin).

When treating strains of Staphylococcus aureus resistant to methicillin, it is recommended to use Minomycin, Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, Ciprofloxacin or Vancomycin.

Rice. 29. The photo shows the stages of cleansing the ulcer of a opened carbuncle.

Features of the treatment of boils

Features of the treatment of boils and carbuncles located on the face

If boils are located on the face (nose area, lips or nasolabial triangle), with inflammation of the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, or deteriorating general health, patients are hospitalized. They are prescribed bed rest, restriction of facial mobility is recommended, and antibiotics are prescribed. With this arrangement of abscesses, there is a high risk of complications in the form of meningitis and sepsis. The administration of heparin will prevent the formation of blood clots in the facial veins.

Rice. 30. The photo shows a boil. On the left is the marking of the surgical field. On the right is a cross-shaped incision.

Features of the treatment of multiple boils

Patients with multiple boils require antibiotic and immunotherapy, treatment of concomitant diseases and sanitation of foci of chronic infection.

  • Patients' nutrition should be complete and regular. Restriction of carbohydrates and salt is recommended. Alcohol should be completely avoided.
  • For specific treatment, antistaphylococcal drugs are used, which are represented by antistaphylococcal immunoglobulin, antistaphylococcal plasma, staphylococcal toxoid and staphylococcal bacteriophage.
  • In addition to specific methods of treating staphylococcal infections, autohemotherapy, administration of protein blood substitutes, pyrogenal, prodigiosan, methyluracil and splenin are indicated. Vitamins and immunomodulators are prescribed. To stimulate the immune system in children and adults, the use of drugs is indicated plant origin- echinacea ( Immunal), ginseng ( Ginseng tincture, drugs in the form of tablets and capsules) and Schisandra chinensis.
  • In the treatment of multiple boils, suberythemal doses of ultraviolet rays, electrophoresis with drugs, the use of a helium-neon laser, and UHF currents are indicated.

Features of the treatment of furunculosis

  • Treatment of furunculosis includes the use of specific and nonspecific methods of increasing immunity, treatment of concomitant diseases, sanitation of foci of chronic infection and dietary nutrition.
  • Antibiotics for furunculosis are used until all foci of inflammation are completely healed. If necessary, maintenance antibacterial treatment is prescribed for several months.
  • It is recommended to take a shower and use soap and antiseptic gel: foaming solution Povidone-iodine or Benzoyl peroxide.
  • A good effect in the treatment of staphylococcal infections is obtained by applying ointments with the antibiotic mupirocin to the affected areas of the skin: Bactroban, Bonderm, Supirocin.
  • Physiotherapy methods include suberythemal doses of ultraviolet rays, electrophoresis with drugs and the use of a helium-neon laser. To accelerate the maturation of abscesses and their spontaneous opening, the use of UHF currents is indicated.

Features of carbuncle treatment

  • Treatment of carbuncle is carried out in a hospital setting.
  • If the carbuncle is localized on the face, bed rest and restriction of facial mobility (eating solid food, talking, etc.) are prescribed, and antibiotics are prescribed.
  • If necessary, detoxification therapy is carried out: administration of polyglucin or hemodez, blood transfusion.
  • If the use of conservative methods of treatment is ineffective (increasing symptoms of intoxication and tissue necrosis), the carbuncle is opened surgically within 2 - 3 days, followed by drainage of the purulent cavity. Dressings are carried out twice a day.

Rice. 31. The photo shows a carbuncle. The process of cleaning a wound.

Preventing the spread of infection

  • It is strictly forbidden to wash damaged skin.
  • Fingernails should be cut short and treated with 2% before treatment procedures. alcohol solution Yoda.
  • Before treatment, the hair located in the lesion should be cut, but not shaved.
  • Healthy skin around the lesions is treated with a 1 - 2% alcohol solution salicylic acid or aqueous solution potassium permanganate.
  • It is forbidden to squeeze out pustules.
  • The use of compresses is prohibited.

Prevention of recurrence of boils and carbuncles

  1. Elimination of carriage of Staphylococcus aureus. Identification and treatment of foci of chronic infection.
  2. The use of soap and gels with antiseptics when washing hands and taking a shower.
  3. The use of ointment with mupirocin (putting it in the nose) will help eliminate staphylococci from the mucous membrane of the nasal passages.
  4. Adequate treatment of diabetes mellitus as a predisposing factor in the development of the disease.
Articles in the section "Pyoderma"Most popular

Good day, dear readers!

Today we will look at such things as furunculosis and everything connected with it.

What is furunculosis?

Furunculosis- multiple purulent-necrotic lesions of hair follicles, as well as their sebaceous glands and surrounding connective tissue.

Furuncle- purulent-necrotic inflammation of the hair follicle and surrounding connective tissues.

The main differences between the concepts “furuncle” and “furunculosis” are the widespread nature of the latter. Boils with furunculosis do not appear only once. Constant relapses and chronic course This skin disease is the main feature of furunculosis.

The main symptoms of furunculosis– the formation of a painful pustule on the skin against the background of redness of the skin, in the center of which a purulent-necrotic core forms. After the rod is rejected, the tissue scars and heals.

The main cause of furunculosis- mainly staphylococci, which infect the skin against the background of decreased immune reactivity or other diseases.

The most common formation of boils is on the forearms, back of the head, lower back, buttocks, abdomen and legs, but furunculosis on the face is also not uncommon, and boils on the nose, ears and other parts of the face are the most painful.

The prognosis for furunculosis is positive, but if you do not pay enough attention to this disease and do not prescribe adequate treatment, complications may appear - thrombosis, lymphadenitis, and even sepsis.

The appearance of boils can be associated with seasonality - autumn and spring.

Development of furunculosis

The appearance and development of furunculosis can be primary or secondary.

The initial appearance of boils usually occurs on healthy skin. One of the most popular pictures looks something like this: on the skin of almost any person there is a certain microflora (especially staphylococci), which, when the skin is mechanically damaged (cuts, abrasions), penetrate into the epidermis layer. If the wound is not disinfected, bacterial and possibly other types of infection create an inflammatory focus at the site of sedimentation and begin to actively multiply. The immune system sends protective cells to the site of inflammation, which “contain” pathogenic microorganisms and their metabolic products in one place. That is why the boil has a purulent core in one place at the peak of its formation, which, together with the elevation, resembles a “microvolcano”.

The secondary appearance of boils is usually widespread, and here it is more fair to talk about furunculosis, since their appearance and development usually occurs against the background of other diseases, for example, staphyloderma (staphylococcal pyoderma). The reason for this phenomenon is no longer one factor - the penetration of infection. Here it is fair to talk about a combination of 2 or more factors. The main ones are “skin trauma or large pores – introduction of bacteria under the skin – reduced reactivity of the immune system.”

After infection enters the skin, the development of a boil occurs in 3 stages, the duration of each of which, in the absence of complications, is up to 10 days:

Furuncle stage 1 (beginning)– accompanied by an inflammatory process at the site of sedimentation and active reproduction of the infection. The site of inflammation turns red, but the red spot does not have clear boundaries. A hard infiltrate, a compaction, forms in the center of the redness, and when pressed, the patient feels some pain and tingling. The surrounding tissues gradually swell, and the compaction, as the boil develops, increases in size.

Furuncle stage 2 (3-4 days)– is accompanied by an increase in the boil up to 3 cm in diameter, as well as the formation of a purulent-necrotic core in the middle of it with a pustule on the surface. IN pathological process the nearby sweat gland and connective tissue are involved. Surroundings blood vessels expand, swelling of collagen is observed. The skin over the boil becomes smooth and more painful. Inside the towering cone-shaped “mountain”, elastic and collagen fibers are destroyed, and a dense protective ring is formed from them, preventing infection and purulent contents from leaving the boil, which prevents toxic substances from spreading throughout the body. By the way, this is precisely the reason why it is not allowed to squeeze out a boil without understanding the rules for opening it, otherwise there is big risk break the “barrier” between the body and the boil.

Furunculosis ( a large number of boils) can cause symptoms of intoxication of the body - general malaise and weakness, nausea, lack of appetite, increased body temperature, headaches.

At the end of the development of the 2nd stage of the boil, the pustule is opened spontaneously or artificially, and a necrotic core with yellow-green pus, which may also contain an admixture of blood, comes out

Furuncle stage 3– is accompanied by the appearance of a “crater” at the site of the opened pustule, which is first filled with granulations, and after a couple of days scars.

After a while, the location of the boil is almost invisible. However, massive skin lesions, especially with deep, large boils, and if they were treated incorrectly or not treated at all, often result in the appearance of scars and skin irregularities, which not all specialists can remove. By the way, one of the methods for smoothing the skin after furunculosis is peeling, which, depending on the depth of the scars, unevenness and skin type, can be superficial, medium and deep. In fact, peeling is the removal of the top layer of damaged skin, in its place a new, healthy layer appears.

It should also be noted that with furunculosis, not all boils can develop according to the scheme provided above. Some boils may be limited to only the formation of an infiltrate and not have a core, while some, on the contrary, are accompanied by abscesses and phlegmons.

Once again we would like to remind you that the appearance of a boil is possible only around the hair follicle.

Furuncle - ICD

ICD-10: L02;
ICD-9: 680.9.

Symptoms of furunculosis

The main symptom of furunculosis– multiple rashes. A boil is a dense formation in the area of ​​the inflamed follicle, the skin over which turns red, up to 3 cm in diameter. As it matures, the boil becomes painful, in appearance - a cone-shaped mountain with a purulent-necrotic core in the middle. The tissue around the boil swells. After the eruption of the rod and purulent contents, the swelling with pain subsides, and a scar forms at the healing site. Some boils may be limited only to the formation of a reddened infiltrate.

Other signs of furunculosis:

  • General malaise;
  • Loss of appetite, ;
  • - up to 38 °C.

Complications of furunculosis

  • Thrombosis;
  • Lymphangitis;
  • Lymphadenitis;
  • Arachnoiditis;
  • Phlebitis;

The causative agent of furunculosis– bacteria, mainly Staphylococcus aureus, less often white.

To prevent complications of furunculosis in the form of the formation of abscesses and cellulitis, electrophoresis with antimicrobial drugs is used.

The continuous appearance of new pustular formations may indicate the presence systemic damage body infection, then treatment is aimed at treating the underlying disease.

3. Opening the abscess

After self- or artificial opening of the abscess, the wound and surrounding skin are carefully treated with 3% hydrogen peroxide. The surrounding fabric can also be treated with alcohol, methylene blue or brilliant green.

The opening of the abscess is performed by a surgeon. Surgical methods Treatments are also used for abscesses, advanced phlegmons. After opening, stitches may be needed.

Bandages with antibacterial ointments are applied to the treated wound - erythromycin, synthomycin, and proteolytic drugs are added to them, which have local immunostimulating properties, which is why the wound heals faster. Bandages need to be changed every other day.

For even better healing of the skin, when the wound is covered with granulation tissue, bandages are applied to it:

  • Ointments- ichthyol, “Liniment Vishnevsky”, “Liniment syntomycin”, “Liniment streptotsid”, “”, indifferent fat dressings ( fish fat, sterile petroleum jelly, synthomycin emulsion), “Miramistin”, “Streptotsid”, 5-10% dermatol or xeroform;
  • Powders— “Dermatol”, “Xeroform”;
  • Aerosols- Polcortolone, Oxycort.

Treatment of furunculosis does not stop until the infiltrate (compaction) is completely reabsorbed, otherwise various complications may appear.

Important! During treatment of furunculosis, constantly change clothes and towels!

Additional methods of treating furunculosis:

  • methods of physiotherapy - infrared irradiation (sollux), UHF;
  • diet - includes limiting spicy and fatty foods, spices, alcoholic beverages, fast foods and others;
  • additional fortification of the body - taking (,
  • the use of antistaphylococcal gammaglobulin and transfusion of antistaphylococcal plasma;
  • An effective remedy for furunculosis is autohemotherapy.

What should you not do if you have a boil?

  • Massage the site of the inflammatory process;
  • Squeeze out the boil, especially during its maturation;
  • Use warm compresses, poultices and other wet procedures.

Important! Before using traditional methods of treating furunculosis, be sure to consult your doctor!

Calendula. Mix dried crushed leaves and butter together in a ratio of 1:5. Apply the ointment to the boil and bandage it overnight.

Wax, spruce sulfur and onion. Melt 50 g of beeswax in an enamel pan, then add to it 1 teaspoon of spruce sulfur, 10 “butts” of onions and 250 ml olive oil. Place the pan over low heat and simmer the product for an hour, periodically skimming off the resulting foam. Afterwards, set the product aside to cool slightly, strain and pour it into a glass jar for storage. When the product has cooled, use it as an ointment, wrapping it with a bandage.

Aloe. Tear off a leaf from an adult and place it on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator for a couple of days, wrapped in a damp cloth. Afterwards, rinse, cut off the peel and wrap it around the boil with a bandage overnight. Aloe helps to “pull” the contents of the boil out.

Bulb. Bake a medium-sized onion in the oven until soft, cut it in half and apply to the boil. Change the compress every 4-5 hours until the boil matures.

Elder. Pour 2 tbsp. spoons of black elderberry berries 400 ml of boiling water, cover the container and leave the product to infuse for 4 hours, strain and take 50 ml 4 times a day. Efficiency increases when added to a decoction.

Nettle. Pour 2 tbsp. spoons of dried 500 ml of boiling water, wrap the container and leave the product to infuse for 1 hour, strain and take 1/3 cup 3 times a day for 10 days.

Prevention of furunculosis

Prevention of furunculosis includes:

  • Compliance ;
  • If the surface of the skin is injured, be sure to treat the wound and the surrounding skin;
  • Video about boil

Furunculosis is a dermatological disease accompanied by the formation of ulcers on the skin.

The disease affects the deep layers of the skin and is caused mainly by staphylococcal infection. The fact that the focus of the pathological process is located quite deep gives grounds to say that after suffering from furunculosis, scars may appear at the site of localization of pustular formations.

Furunculosis can cause multiple skin inflammations. It is prone to frequent relapses and can last for several years. The disease is not only unpleasant - it is very dangerous, therefore its causes, main features of manifestation and methods of treatment should be known to everyone.

Reasons for the development of furunculosis

The causative agent of furunculosis and the only reason for its development is the presence of strains of Staphylococcus aureus on human skin. U healthy people these microorganisms are also present, but constitute only part of the opportunistic microflora. This means that under the influence of certain factors, staphylococci are able to launch a massive attack, causing the development various diseases. One of these is furunculosis.

In order to give rise to the disease, it is necessary to create favorable conditions for staphylococcus. These are often mechanical damage to the skin: abrasions, scratches, cracks, cuts, etc. But we cannot exclude the influence of other factors that contribute to the development of furunculosis:

  • poisoning;
  • abrasions on the surface of the epidermis;
  • hypothermia;
  • chronic pathologies;
  • neglect of hygiene rules;
  • obesity;
  • severe intoxication of the body;
  • deficiency of vitamins and minerals;
  • use of certain groups of medications.

Frequent reasons for the development of furunculosis are severe stress, psycho-emotional disorders, weak immunity, unable to resist the attack of pathogenic microorganisms.

Stages of development and forms of manifestation

The development of furunculosis occurs in 3 stages:

  1. The first stage is characterized by the formation of an infiltrate. The skin around the source of inflammation turns red, thickens and becomes swollen. When touched, it is painful. A hair follicle is visible in the center of the neoplasm.
  2. 3-4 days after the formation of the infiltrate, the necrosis stage begins. A shaft begins to form around the hair, inside which there is pus and dead tissue. A round abscess of white or yellowish color. On top of it there is a thin membrane that is prone to spontaneous opening. As a result, a boil occurs. At the same time, there is a decrease in pain and pressure in the part of the body affected by the boil. Hyperemia gradually disappears, swelling decreases significantly. In this case, they talk about a “boil breakthrough.”
  3. Healing phase. At this stage, tissue regeneration occurs in the area of ​​the damaged area of ​​the body. If the boil was of impressive size, it is quite possible that after opening it the person will be left with scars or scars.

On average, the disease goes through all 3 phases within 10 days.

Most often, boils can be located in the area:

  • face (nose, cheeks, forehead, behind-the-ear area);
  • neck (back and sides);
  • forearms;
  • elbows;
  • hips;
  • buttocks;
  • less often - knees and shins.

The face is the most common location for ulcers. Boils localized above the upper lip, in the area of ​​the nose and ear canal are quite painful.

Clinical picture

In the area where the infection has occurred, a small abscess appears surrounding the hair follicle. After a few days, the pathological process takes over the entire follicle. In appearance, the boil has a cone-shaped shape, inside of which there is purulent content. The neoplasm reaches 3-4 cm in diameter, but if left untreated it can increase.

An inflamed (edematous and hyperemic) area of ​​skin appears around the abscess. When you touch it, a sensation of pain arises, the source of which, as felt, is located inside the pustular capsule. The boil breaks out 7-10 days after its formation, accompanied by the leakage of pus and the release of the rod. The skin on the damaged surface gradually scars.

If the location of the boil is the face or neck, the above symptoms are accompanied by increased body temperature and signs of intoxication of the body. Muscle pain and a feeling of chills may occur. In severe cases of furunculosis, facial expressions are impaired, and the patient suffers from severe headaches.

Furunculosis on the face - photo

What does furunculosis look like on the face at the initial and late stage development can be seen in the photos below:

Diagnostics

Furunculosis is not particularly difficult to diagnose. To begin with, a thorough history taking and visual examination of the areas of skin affected by ulcers are carried out. Based on the data obtained, the doctor makes an initial conclusion about the nature of the disease.

If doubts arise about the correctness of the diagnosis, the patient may be prescribed an additional procedure - bacterial culture to determine the causative agent of the pathology. During the procedure, a small amount of the contents of the pustules is collected for further laboratory testing.

A blood test and immunological tests are required. If these measures do not provide a complete picture of the disease, a detailed instrumental examination of the patient is carried out. But doctors rarely resort to such diagnostic methods.

Complications

The main complication of furunculosis is the occurrence of cosmetic defects caused by scarring. The formation of abscesses is especially dangerous in people with general exhaustion of the body. In such patients, the disease is often complicated by the formation of an abscess (abscess) or phlegmon (purulent melting) of the skin and subcutaneous tissue.

The formation of boils in the upper lip area is of great danger. From here, the infection can spread to the brain through the lymph and venous bloodstream. This can also lead to the development of sepsis.

Infection of the veins causes the occurrence. From the blood vessels, staphylococcus penetrates the sinuses of the dura mater, leading to a serious illness - basal meningitis. It is characterized by the formation of edema on the face. On palpation, thickening of the veins is noted; the patient may complain of their soreness.

The patient's temperature may rise to 40 °C or higher, and muscle stiffness may occur. The patient complains of headaches and blurred vision, and may experience confusion.

If ulcers have formed on the neck or shoulder, lymphadenitis may develop - purulent inflammation cervical lymph nodes. When Staphylococcus aureus penetrates the blood, ulcers can appear on internal organs - liver, kidneys, etc.

Complications of furunculosis can occur against the background of:

  • attempts to squeeze or puncture the boil;
  • injuries received while shaving;
  • improper treatment using only local drugs (ointments, gels, compresses).

Ulcers localized on the nose or in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle lead to various complications of furunculosis.

How to treat furunculosis?

To undergo an examination with further development of a treatment regimen, you must consult a dermatologist. If the abscess needs to be opened, the patient is given a referral to a surgeon.

During treatment, it is necessary to limit hygiene procedures and manipulations that could damage the membrane of an immature abscess. You can take warm baths (but not hot ones, as they can speed up the pathological process), or lightly rub the affected areas of the skin with antibacterial agents. In this case, it is necessary to carefully treat the epidermis around the abscess to prevent the spread of infection.

It is strictly prohibited:

  • squeezing out the abscess;
  • the use of wet warming compresses and lotions;
  • massaging the skin in the area of ​​purulent lesion.

Such measures will lead to aggravation of the situation and damage to other tissues.

Diet

With furunculosis, you need a diet enriched with proteins, including those of animal origin. Great importance also has plant fiber. It is better to exclude sweets and fats from the menu.

For exhausted patients, a different menu is being developed, which necessarily includes:

  • porridge with added butter;
  • chicken broths;
  • steamed fish cakes;
  • baked fruits and vegetables, meat;
  • fermented milk products.

You need to eat as many berries, vegetables and fruits as possible. At the same time, you should reduce the amount of allergenic foods, salt and spices consumed.

Local therapy

If there is only one boil, then without the risk of relapse it can be treated only with local drugs. Therapy is carried out at home, following a few simple rules.

  1. Trim the hair around the boil, trying not to touch it, but under no circumstances shave the abscess!
  2. Treat the surface of the new growth with potassium permanganate, then with ichthyol. The latter remedy is used as a compress, which is wrapped on top with a bandage or gauze. Ichthyol is used morning and evening. Before reapplying the ointment, the remnants of the previous product must be removed using a cotton swab dipped in warm water. After this, the infiltrate is treated with an alcohol solution of salicylic or boric acid.
  3. If an abscess has just begun to form, then to prevent its further development, you can use iodine or a solution of brilliant green.
  4. To prevent further formation of a purulent core, the boil can be treated with salicylic acid.
  5. After opening the abscess, treat its location with a hypertonic solution of furatsilin. It is also useful to wash the cavity of the resulting wound with the antiseptic drug Chlorhexidine. Manipulations are carried out 2 times a day.
  6. After complete cleansing ulcers from pus use applications or dressings with Vishnevsky ointment, Levomekol, Sintomycin liniment, Erythromycin, etc. Dressings should be done once every 2 days, while the use of circular dressings is not recommended. The edges of the medicated napkin are carefully attached to healthy skin using adhesive tape.

When there are boils on the face, the patient needs to remain in bed and try to talk as little as possible so as not to strain the muscles. Sometimes it may be necessary to hospitalize the patient in a hospital.

Antibiotics for furunculosis

Treatment of multiple boils is carried out using antibiotics. The drugs are selected by the doctor individually for each patient, taking into account the data obtained from the antibiogram on the sensitivity of staphylococcus to specific pharmaceuticals. Often they resort to the use of systemic (tablet) medications, less often - injections (intramuscular or intravenous).

The drugs used are mainly wide range actions:

  1. or related to the penicillin series.
  2. Cephalexin or Ceftriaxone - from cephalosporins.
  3. Sumamed or - from the group of macrolides.
  4. Lincomycin - from lincosamides, etc.

The course of therapy usually lasts 10 days, but can be shortened or prolonged (rarely) exclusively by the attending physician.

Immunotherapy and vitamin use

The maximum effect of antibiotic therapy can only be achieved with parallel immunotherapy and the use of vitamins. To stimulate the immune system, it is advisable to use:

  • multivitamin complexes containing minerals (zinc, selenium);
  • preparations based on vitamins C and A;
  • vitamin complexes based on B vitamins (especially in case of depletion of the body and constant physical or emotional stress);
  • autohemotherapy (blood transfusion);
  • staphylococcal vaccine.

To improve the functioning of the immune system, it is important to properly organize your diet and give the body good rest and avoid gastrointestinal pathologies. If necessary, your doctor can prescribe medications that normalize and support intestinal microflora. This is especially important when taking antibiotics.

Folk remedies

For a single boil, treatment can also be carried out using folk remedies. Many of them can be used in parallel with medications prescribed by a doctor. Below are the most effective recipes alternative medicine to combat furunculosis.

  1. Mix beeswax in a proportion of 100 g with spruce sulfur, lower parts of onions and vegetable oil. The last ingredient must first be boiled, and only then add wax and sulfur. After half an hour, put the onion into the boiling mixture, then boil it for another hour, regularly skimming off the foam that forms on the surface of the mixture with a spoon. The cooled medicine is poured into jars, and when it thickens, it is applied to the affected areas of the skin several times a day.
  2. Cut an aloe leaf and apply the pulp to the boils. You can use a paste made from this plant.
  3. Wipe with laundry soap and mix with a small amount of water. Soak sterile gauze or bandage in the mixture and apply to sore areas. Applications need to be changed 4 times a day.
  4. Mix the egg yolk with 15 ml of honey and a small amount of flour. Add a little water and make a cake, which you then apply to the boils.
  5. Lubricate the affected areas with decoctions of horsetail or oak bark.

Surgical assistance

If the boil enlarges and damages healthy tissue, it is surgically opened. The operation is performed under local anesthesia. During the manipulation, the abscess is opened, its contents are removed along with the shaft and hair follicle.

After the procedure, a sterile bandage is applied to the treated area. It needs to be changed daily, lubricating the area of ​​skin that has undergone the intervention, antiseptic solutions or ointments.

The wound healing period lasts from 1 to 4 weeks. It all depends on the size of the abscess.

Sometimes, when opening an abscess, it is necessary to insert a drainage tube, with the help of which the pus will be drained. This procedure helps prevent re-suppuration.

Recently, treatment of furunculosis has been carried out using a laser. This therapy is painless and highly effective, and after it there are practically no scars left at the treatment site.

Prevention

You can prevent the development of furunculosis by following these simple rules:

  • keep your body clean and use only individual towels and hygiene products;
  • treat damaged skin areas with antiseptic agents;
  • Avoid squeezing pimples and other formations on the skin;
  • carefully monitor your diet, consume flour, sweets, and fried foods to a minimum;
  • ensure full physical activity to stimulate the body's defenses.

A strong immune system can cope with infectious processes and prevent their progression. But if boils do appear, you must immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Human skin requires careful care. Only then does she look as healthy and beautiful as possible. One of the terrible and unpleasant misfortunes is the occurrence of painful acne. They are called boils. These are purulent abscesses under the skin. In medicine, this disease is called furunculosis. The resulting formations cause pain, significantly spoil the appearance and are quite difficult to remove. However, even such acne is not a reason to panic. Medicine has long found the answer to the question of how to treat furunculosis. A person who is ready for treatment and prevention is quite capable of dealing with such acne.

What is furunculosis

Treatment of children

The first step on the path to recovery should be a visit to the doctor. It is very dangerous to treat the disease yourself. The doctor will be able to correctly determine the cause of the disease and prescribe the necessary treatment for the child. If the disease is at initial stage, then the baby is prescribed external remedies. Often these are ointments with antibiotics, various solutions.

For later stages of furunculosis, it is most often used surgical intervention. There is no need to worry too much about this; the child usually tolerates this procedure quite easily, since the process of opening the abscess occurs only under anesthesia. It is strictly forbidden to carry out such procedures at home. And the reason lies not only in the inappropriate environment. There is a high probability of making an incorrect incision, which will cause great harm to the child.

During the treatment period, it is necessary to carefully review the baby’s diet. It is advisable to exclude sweets and harmful products. A balanced diet will strengthen the child’s health, enrich it with vitamins and significantly improve immunity.

Monitor your child's health. Even the slightest symptoms should prompt you to immediately contact a specialist. You shouldn’t wait for one abscess to turn into real furunculosis. The photo below shows what a boil in a child may look like.

Prohibited Methods

Numerous recommendations and advice provide information on how to treat furunculosis. However, does everyone know which methods are strictly prohibited? Ignoring prohibitions will lead directly to the surgeon's office. Knowing them, such a prospect can be avoided.

Sometimes a boil that seems to be fully ripe has a desire to be squeezed out. This is strictly forbidden. Especially if the abscess is located in the nasolabial triangle. The outflow of blood from this area of ​​the face passes through the veins of the brain. The infection is fraught with serious complications: brain abscess, meningitis.

You should never open an abscess. A carefully treated instrument at home (with any antiseptic liquids) will never be completely sterile. There is a category of dangerous microorganisms (non-clostridial infection, anaerobic) that are not destroyed by home sterilization methods. Therefore, there is always a chance of introducing another infection into the wound.

If a boil spontaneously opens, you should not apply tinctures or ointments to the wound. It is much more useful to place a sterile napkin on the abscess and secure it with an adhesive plaster.

Taking antibiotics should be strictly as recommended by your doctor, especially if you do not know which medications to take. All antibiotics are different, and some may simply not be suitable. It is much easier to seek the advice of a doctor than to subsequently treat the most severe form of dysbacteriosis.

During the period when the boil has opened, you must stop taking baths. It is strictly forbidden to wet purulent wounds.

If your field of activity is related to children, people, or is directly related to food, you should not forget that furunculosis is an infectious disease. During illness, you must take sick leave.

If the process of opening the boil is very delayed, you need to seek help from a specialist. You should not wait for the development of an abscess or phlegmon.

Prevention of furunculosis

The main method of partial treatment and prevention of furunculosis is strict adherence to hygiene rules. It is very important to disinfect the skin. Even minor scratches or cuts must be treated carefully.

It is important not to forget about healthy image life, properly balance your diet. Significantly limit your carbohydrate intake. It is necessary to carefully monitor how metabolism occurs in the body.

One of the important preventive methods is to strengthen the immune system. It’s a good idea to start strengthening your body; playing sports is great.

Any diseases internal organs, colds, infections should be treated in a timely manner so as not to aggravate the disease with serious complications.

If a boil appears, you need to disinfect the environment as much as possible. For this:

  • after each touching a boil, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and be sure to use a disinfectant;
  • Apply a sterile bandage to the area of ​​the abscess - this will help prevent the infection from spreading to other areas;
  • use a separate towel, clothes, and exclusively your own bedding;
  • after recovery, all things must be thoroughly disinfected;
  • The premises must be regularly wet cleaned using disinfectants.

Furuncle(syn. in everyday life - “ulcer”, “boil”) - this is a type staphyloderma(pustular inflammatory skin disease caused by staphylococcal microorganisms). It is characterized by the development of a purulent-inflammatory process in the hair follicle and surrounding tissue.

Furunculosis- a disease characterized by the appearance of a large number of boils on different parts of the skin.

Carbuncle- a disease in which several nearby hair follicles become inflamed. We can say that these are several boils combined into one. The disease has a more severe course.

Prevalence of boils

Pyoderma* - a group of diseases that include boils - are quite widespread. They make up about 40% of other skin pathologies. Patients with boils make up from 4% to 17% of all patients treated in inpatient dermatological clinics.

In recent years, the number of patients with boils of the face, especially the nose area, has been increasing.

*Pyoderma is a pustular skin disease. A general concept that unites a large number of various diseases. The two main types of pyoderma are staphyloderma (purulent processes caused by staphylococci) and streptoderma (caused by streptococci).

Anatomy of skin and hair follicles

Human skin is a special organ that covers almost the entire surface of the body. Its area in an adult is on average 1.5 - 2.5 meters. It consists of layers that are tightly connected to each other.

Layers of skin:

  • Epidermis- outer layer of skin. Consists of several layers of epithelial cells. The deepest layer is responsible for cell growth and reproduction. The outer layer, the horny layer, is represented by horny scales and performs a protective function.
  • Dermis. It is located under the epidermis and fits tightly to it. Consists of connective tissue. It is the basis for the epidermis, contains blood vessels and nerves.
  • Subcutaneous fat. Represented by adipose tissue.

Skin defense mechanisms

  • Maintaining a certain level of acidity. The pH level of the skin ranges from 3 to 7. In such conditions, only microorganisms that are representatives of normal microflora can exist.
  • Normal microflora. Microorganisms that are normally present on the surface of the skin prevent the proliferation of pathogens.
  • Langerhans cell. These are specific immune cells that are found in the epidermis. They take part in providing immune protection, producing interferon And lysozyme- substances that destroy pathogenic microorganisms.

Structure of hair and hair follicle

Hair- these are keratinized skin appendages. There can be up to 2 million hairs on the human body.

Hair structure:

  • Hair shaft- a thin part of the hair that protrudes above the surface of the skin.
  • Hair root- part of the hair located deep in the skin, in the hair follicle.

The hair follicle is embedded in the dermis and subcutaneous adipose tissue. Around it there is a dense capsule of connective tissue.

At the bottom of the hair follicle is its expanded part. It contains the hair follicle - the club-shaped expanded lower end of the hair. The hair follicle contains cells, the division of which ensures hair growth. into the hair follicle and hair follicle the papilla from the connective tissue grows in. It contains blood vessels and nerves for nutrition and innervation of the hair.

In the upper part of the hair follicle, an expansion in the form of a funnel is also formed - its mouth. The duct of the sebaceous (any hair) and sweat (only hair located in certain areas of the body) gland flows into it.

Sebaceous glands draining into the mouth of the hair follicle

The sebaceous gland consists of an enlarged part, which is directly responsible for the secretion of sebum, and an excretory duct.

Sebum has a complex structure. It has bactericidal properties - it can destroy pathogenic microorganisms that fall on the surface of the skin.

Sebum production in humans is mainly regulated by the adrenal glands and sex hormones. The more testosterone is present in the body, the more active the sebaceous glands work.

Sweat glands that secrete secretions at the mouth of the hair follicle

Only specific ducts flow into the mouths of hair follicles. apocrine sweat glands. The final part of the gland that secretes sweat is located deep in the dermis.

Apocrine sweat glands are located in the armpits, around the nipples, genitals and anus.

Causes of boils and furunculosis

Who is staphylococcus?

Staphylococcus is a microorganism that is constantly present on the surface of the skin normally, and, at the same time, is capable of causing a wide variety of purulent infections, ranging from boils to severe blood poisoning - sepsis.

How can the same bacteria be both harmless (and sometimes even beneficial) and very dangerous?

The point is that there are different strains staphylococci. Strain is a group within a species, like breeds in dogs.

Some strains are completely harmless to humans. Other conditionally pathogenic, that is, they are capable of causing infections only under reduced immunity and other special circumstances. Still others always cause illness if they enter the body.

Normally, 90% of staphylococci found on human skin are harmless strains. 10% are pathogenic, but there are so few of them that they are not capable of causing a purulent process. Boils and furunculosis develop in cases where this ratio changes greatly.

What skin features predispose to the development of boils?

  • increased sweating: with constant sweat, the structure and protective properties of the skin are disrupted
  • scratching and damage caused by other skin diseases and disorders
  • frequent skin injuries: abrasions, scratches, abrasions - any infection easily penetrates through these defects
  • constant contact of the skin with discharge from the nose and ears during chronic diseases: rhinitis, otitis, etc.
  • skin contamination, non-compliance with personal hygiene rules: most often boils form on back surface neck, since a lot of dirt and sweat accumulates here, there is constant friction against the collar
  • violations of skin protection as a result of occupational hazards: constant contact with lubricating oils, dust (coal, cement, lime, etc.), aggressive chemicals

Decreased immunity

The normal state of the body's immune forces prevents the penetration of any pathogenic microorganisms into the skin.

Factors leading to decreased immune strength and furunculosis:

  • severe chronic infectious and inflammatory diseases: tonsillitis, bronchitis, frequent pneumonia, rhinitis and sinusitis, otitis, etc.;
  • diseases accompanied by decreased immunity: HIV;
  • reception immunosuppressants(drugs intended specifically to suppress the immune system in autoimmune diseases), cytostatics(medicines for the destruction of tumor cells), application radiation therapy;
  • hypothermia or overheating;
  • insufficient and malnutrition, hypovitaminosis.

Hormonal disorders

Diabetes

Furunculosis can be considered a complication of long-term diabetes mellitus. The disease leads to disruption of blood flow in small vessels. As a result, the skin does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients. Dystrophic processes occur in it, and protective mechanisms decrease. Staphylococci penetrate hair follicles more easily.

Excessive adrenal function

The cortex (outer layer) of the adrenal glands secretes glucocorticoid hormones. They have many effects.

Effects of glucocorticoids on boils:

  • immunosuppression, decreased skin protection
  • an increase in the production of sebum, which, accumulating on the skin and in the lumen of the sebaceous glands, turns into a breeding ground for pathogens

Increasing the content of male sex hormones in the body
Testosterone and its analogues enhance the function of the sebaceous glands of the skin.

Stages of boil development

Usually the boil lasts no more than 10 days. After this, it usually goes away completely. There are 3 stages during a boil:

Stage Characteristic
Infiltrative stage Appears on the surface of the skin infiltrate- area of ​​swelling, redness and induration. It is painful, gradually increases in size, reaching an average of 1 - 3 cm. The skin around the infiltrate also becomes swollen and painful. The tingling feeling bothers me. Feature: an infiltrate always forms around the hair, since staphylococci primarily affect the hair follicle and multiply inside it. At this stage of the boil, the phrase “boil is brewing” is often used in everyday life.
Purulent-necrotic stage It is observed 3 to 4 days after the first symptoms of a boil appear. A core consisting of pus and dead tissue appears in the center of the infiltrate. Its end protrudes above the surface of the skin in the form of an abscess.
At a certain point in time, the thin layer of tissue covering the rod bursts, and pus and dead tissue come out. After this there is a significant improvement. All symptoms decrease: swelling and redness begin to subside, pain no longer bothers you. In common parlance, this condition is referred to by the phrase “the boil has broken through.”
Healing stage After the pus is rejected, the wound remaining at the site of the boil begins to heal. If the boil was small, then after healing there are no signs left on the skin. Large ulcers leave behind scars.

Symptoms of furunculosis

Manifestations of furunculosis depend on the stage of the process, the location of the boil, and the state of the body’s immune forces.

Areas of the body where boils are most common:

  • face: nose, nasolabial triangle(the area of ​​skin between the nose and upper lip), ear area
  • back of the neck: in this case, the fact that the skin of the neck constantly experiences friction in contact with the collar plays a certain role
  • forearms
  • buttocks and thighs

Symptoms of a boil on the face

The face is one of the favorite places to localize a boil, since the skin on the face most often has increased oil content and there is a large number of sebaceous glands. The most common boils are the nose, upper lip, and ear canal area.

Characteristic symptoms and complaints of patients with nasal boils:

  • the boil quickly becomes noticeable, since even with small sizes it leads to a cosmetic defect
  • noted strong pain
  • pain in the area of ​​the boil intensifies during movements of facial muscles, shaving, washing;
  • Facial boils, more often than in other places, are accompanied by increased body temperature and general malaise
  • headaches are noted
  • small boils resemble blackheads (pimples); attempts to squeeze them out are accompanied by severe pain.

Why is a facial boil dangerous?

The veins of the facial area are connected to the veins of the skull. When trying to squeeze out a boil on the face, carelessly pressing on it, the work of facial muscles, or a decrease in immunity, the infection can penetrate into the venous bed and lead to the development of thrombophlebitis - inflammation of the walls of the veins with the formation of blood clots. The face becomes swollen, acquires a bluish coloration, and is painful to touch. Severely disturbed general state patient, body temperature rises to 40⁰C.

Further, the infection can spread into the cranial cavity, leading to meningitis(inflammation of the meninges), meningoencephalitis(inflammation of the meninges and brain matter), sepsis(generalized inflammation).

There is a rule in purulent surgery: boils on the face that are located above the upper lip should be treated with the utmost caution.

Symptoms of a boil under the armpit

Boils in the armpit are relatively uncommon. Another disease is more common here - hidradenitis- purulent inflammation of the sweat gland.

In general, a boil in the axillary region is accompanied by the same symptoms as boils in other locations. An increase in pain is noted during movements in shoulder joints, careless touching and pressing on the boil.

Symptoms of a boil in the groin area and on the lower limb

In the groin area, boils and hidradenitis may occur. A boil in the groin manifests itself with typical symptoms and goes through typical stages.

Conditions that may complicate a boil in the groin area and lower limb:


  • Regional lymphadenitis. Inflammation of the lymph nodes located in the area of ​​the boil. It appears as a painful lump under the skin. With a boil in the groin, the inguinal lymph nodes are most often affected.
  • Regional lymphangitis. Inflammation of the lymphatic vessel located next to the boil. It appears as a painful cord under the skin. Lymphangitis is often combined with lymphadenitis.

Symptoms of a boil in the genital area

Among the boils that arise in the genital area, the furuncle of the labia majora has the greatest specificity. Most often, its development is associated with bartholinitis- purulent staphylococcal inflammation of the Bartholin glands located in the thickness of the labia majora. Normally, their function is associated with the release of a special lubricant.
A furuncle of the labia majora is accompanied by swelling, redness, and severe pain.

Symptoms of a boil in the buttocks and back of the thigh

The largest boils are usually found in the area of ​​the buttocks and thighs. They are accompanied by the most severe symptoms.

Furunculosis

Furunculosis- a disease that is characterized by the appearance of a large number of boils on different parts of the body or in a limited area (most often on the buttocks, thighs). Furunculosis is also called constant recurrence, when after the healing of boils new ones constantly appear.

Types of furunculosis, depending on the severity of the process:

  • acute furunculosis: there are many boils on the skin at the same time
  • chronic furunculosis: sequential appearance of boils, when some disappear while others appear - this form of the disease usually occurs over a very long time

Types of furunculosis depending on the prevalence of elements:

  • disseminated(common) furunculosis: boils are found throughout the body;
  • localized(limited) furunculosis: all boils are concentrated in only one limited area.

Causes of furunculosis

The causes of individual boils and furunculosis are described above. Furunculosis almost always occurs against the background of decreased immunity.

Symptoms of furunculosis

Furunculosis is accompanied by the same symptoms as a single boil. Each element sequentially goes through three stages of development. But with furunculosis, signs of a violation of the general condition are more pronounced. Malaise and elevated body temperature are noted.

Complications of furunculosis

Complications with furunculosis are relatively common.

The most common complications of furunculosis:

  • lymphadenitis- inflammation of nearby lymph nodes;
  • lymphangitis- inflammation of nearby lymphatic vessels;
  • sepsis, or, in common parlance - blood poisoning - a severe generalized infectious process;
  • meningitis and meningoencephalitis - inflammation of the meninges and brain substance when infection penetrates into the cranial cavity (if the skin of the face and head is affected);
  • arthritis - inflammation in the joints (with skin lesions in the joint area);
  • glomerulonephritis - inflammatory disease kidney

Treatment of furunculosis

When should you see a doctor to open a boil?

In most cases, uncomplicated boils do not require surgical treatment. Conservative techniques are used.

Treatment methods for uncomplicated boils at the infiltration stage:

  • wiping the skin in the area of ​​the abscess with an antiseptic solution, most often with ordinary medical alcohol
  • frequent washing hand soap and antiseptics
  • cauterization of the boil itself with iodine solution (5%)
  • applying dry heat to the boil (under no circumstances apply compresses to the area of ​​the boil: this helps loosen the abscess and spread it to surrounding tissues)
  • UHF therapy
  • laser therapy

Despite the fact that a boil can be treated at home, it is still worth contacting a surgeon or dermatologist at the clinic. The doctor will examine the abscess and give recommendations for treatment. If appropriate indications are found, the doctor will give a referral for hospital treatment. If necessary, he will perform a blockade: he will inject a mixture of antibiotic and anesthetic solutions (Novocaine) into the area of ​​the boil.

Treatment methods for uncomplicated boils at the stage of formation of the rod

When the abscess has already formed, you need to help ensure that its opening occurs as quickly as possible.

What is important to remember:

  • only a doctor after an examination can say exactly what stage the boil is at and whether it is ready to burst
  • In no case should you try to squeeze out the abscess yourself: any pressure on the boil can cause it to begin to spread to surrounding tissues

Methods for treating boils at the stage of formation of a purulent-necrotic core:

  • The doctor applies a bandage with several salicylic acid crystals to the skin in the area of ​​the boil. After some time, they corrode the cover of the boil and contribute to the release of the purulent-necrotic core.
  • The doctor removes the purulent-necrotic rod using a thin clamp. This is done very carefully, avoiding pressing on the boil.

After the abscess has broken through, the doctor places a small rubber strip cut from a glove into it. There will be an outflow of pus through it. Apply a bandage. After 3 days, the gum is removed, the bandage is removed, and the boil is treated with brilliant green.

When is surgical treatment indicated for a boil?

One of the complications of a boil is subcutaneous abscess(abscess). It is formed when pus spreads into the subcutaneous fatty tissue. A subcutaneous abscess must be opened. Such patients are treated in a hospital setting.

Is it possible to squeeze out a boil?

It is especially dangerous to squeeze out boils located on the face.

When should you start taking antibiotics for a boil?

For uncomplicated boils, antibiotic therapy and others general methods no treatment is prescribed.

Conditions for which antibiotic therapy is indicated:

  • complications of boils: lymphadenitis, lymphangitis, thrombophlebitis, etc.
  • boils located in the facial area
  • boils that occur against the background of other serious diseases: diabetes, severe infections, HIV, etc.

Antibiotics used to treat boils

Name Application
Penicillins:
  • ampicillin
  • amoxicillin
  • amoxiclav
Antibiotics from the penicillin group are the oldest. Many of them remain effective against staphylococci and other microorganisms. Penicillins - antibacterial drugs wide spectrum of action.
Cephalosporins:
  • ceftriaxone
  • cefuroxime
  • cefotaxime
Usually more effective than penicillins. These antibiotics are prescribed most often because they have a relatively low cost and a pronounced effect. Available in the form of powders for dilution and injection.
Gentamicin It is a fairly powerful antibacterial drug, but has a number of contraindications. Under no circumstances should it be used by children or pregnant women. Available in the form of tablets, injection solutions and ointments. Local forms (ointments) have fewer contraindications.
Tetracycline Broad-spectrum antibiotic. Effective against many types of microorganisms. Can be used for general (in tablets) and local (in the form of ointment) treatment of boils.
Levomycetin Powerful antibiotic. It is used topically for boils, in the form of an ointment (see below).

Attention! Self-medication with antibiotics for boils is often ineffective and can lead to negative consequences. These medications must be prescribed by a doctor.

In addition to the use of antibiotics, such general treatment methods as UV therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs are used.

What to do if boils appear frequently? Treatment of furunculosis.

If a large number of boils appear on the body at once, or they occur very often, then this condition is called furunculosis.

Self-medication of furunculosis most often does not bring any effect. Improper treatment can lead to further spread of the process and serious complications. To prescribe the correct therapy, you must consult a doctor.

Treatment methods for furunculosis :

Method Description
UV therapy Ultraviolet radiation has an antibacterial effect and promotes tissue regeneration.
Laser therapy Effects of laser radiation:
  • destruction of pathogens
  • improving blood circulation and skin regeneration
  • pain reduction
T-activin Immunostimulant, promotes the formation and activation of leukocytes - immune cells. Treatment with T-activin is carried out under the strict supervision of a physician.
Antistaphylococcal immunoglobulin Immunoglobulins are antibodies that protect the body from foreign antigens. For furunculosis, antibodies produced against staphylococci are used. Treatment is carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor.
Interferon
Antibiotics See above “Antibiotics that are used to treat boils”
Rinoleukin Medicine, stimulating the general defenses of the body.

What to do if the boil opens on its own, but a lot of pus flows out of it?

After the boil has opened, it must be washed with hydrogen peroxide and a clean bandage applied. After this, wash your hands thoroughly. Contact your doctor at the clinic as soon as possible.


Traditional methods of treating boils

Attention: Improper self-medication can lead to the spread of the purulent process and the development of severe complications. Therefore, before using any traditional methods treatment of boils, be sure to consult your doctor.

Coniferous baths for boils

Substances that pine and spruce needles contain:

  • phytoncides- destroy pathogens
  • vitamin C- is an antioxidant, protects cells from damage, increases protective functions
  • tannins- tone the skin and close skin pores.

In order to take pine baths, all you need to do is buy essential oil. You need to dilute a few drops of it in a warm bath and take it for 15-20 minutes daily.

Treatment of boils with aloe leaves

This method is used for ripening boils ( in the stage of infiltration and purulent-necrotic stage) in order to accelerate its breakthrough and rejection of the purulent-necrotic rod.

Aloe - indoor plant, which is often grown in pots. It has succulent leaves. To speed up the breakthrough of the boil, their juice is used. The aloe leaf is cut and applied with a cut to the abscess, fixing it with an adhesive plaster. So you need to walk constantly, replacing the aloe leaf 1 - 2 times a day.

Preparation of ointment for boils

Ingredients:

  • beeswax - 100 grams
  • unrefined vegetable oil- 500 ml
  • spruce sulfur - small amount
  • lower part of the onion - 10 pieces

It is necessary to pour vegetable oil into an enamel pan and put on fire. When it boils, add beeswax and spruce sulfur. After 30 minutes, add the bottoms of the onions. Cook the resulting mixture for 1 hour, stirring occasionally and skimming off any foam that forms. Then remove from heat, strain, and pour into clean containers. The ointment should cool down, thicken, take on a yellow color and a pleasant smell.

Mode of application: Periodically lubricate the areas where boils occur.

Treatment of boils with garlic

Substances contained in garlic:

  • phytoncides - destroy pathogenic microorganisms;
  • adaptogens - tone living organs and tissues, help increase defenses.

Method 1. Cut the garlic clove into thin pieces. Take one of them, apply the cut to the boil, and secure with a bandage. Walk like this for a day until the abscess matures and breaks through.

Method 2. Grate a clove of garlic. Apply to the boil and secure with adhesive tape. Walk like this for a day until the abscess matures and breaks through.

Ointments for furunculosis

For furunculosis, ointments containing antibacterial drugs are mainly used.

Gentamicin Description: Ointment in tubes, from 15 to 80 g. Gentamicin is an antibiotic that is effective against many types of infections, including staphylococcal.

Mode of application: Apply to the location of boils 2 - 3 times a day. Usually the course of treatment lasts 7 - 14 days.

Tetracycline Description: Tetracycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Effective against many types of microorganisms, including staphylococci. Available in tubes of 100 g.

Method of application 1. Apply a small amount of ointment to the areas
location of boils 2 - 3 times a day.

Method of application 2. Apply bandages with tetracycline ointment. Change every 12 - 24 hours.

Levomycetin Description. Levomycetin is a powerful antibiotic that has a pronounced effect in purulent processes. Available for local cutaneous use for furunculosis in the form of liniment (a thick mass like an ointment). Sold in tubes of 25 and 30 g, in cans of 25 and 60 g.

Mode of application: Make bandages with chloramphenicol liniment, change once a day.

Levomekol
Active substances:Description. Levomekol not only has pronounced antibacterial properties, but also stimulates tissue regeneration. Therefore, it is used for large opened boils for speedy cleansing and healing.

Mode of application: Soak a sterile gauze pad with ointment and apply it to the wound. Apply a bandage. Perform dressings daily.

Sintomycin Description. Syntomycin is an antibiotic, which in its chemical structure is very similar to chloramphenicol. Also available in the form of liniment, in 25 g jars.

Mode of application. Apply liniment to the area where the boil is located. Place a bandage over it. Perform dressings daily.

Dimexide Description. Medical drug, belonging to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Eliminates inflammation and pain.

Mode of application: Moisten a sterile gauze pad with dimexide. Apply to the location of the boil and apply a bandage. Do dressings daily.

The effectiveness of ichthyol ointment in the treatment of furunculosis


Ichthyol ointment is an ointment prepared on the basis of the active component ichthyol. It has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and analgesic effects. Ichthyol ointment is widely used in the treatment of boils.

The antibacterial properties of ichthyol ointment apply to all strains of streptococci and staphylococci.

The pronounced analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect of ichthyol ointment appears several hours after its application to the surface of the boil.

Method of using ichthyol ointment for furunculosis

The required amount of ichthyol ointment is applied to the surface of the boil so that it covers the abscess in the form of a cake. Place a cotton swab on top and stick it with an adhesive plaster. The tampon should be changed every 8 hours. After about a day there is improvement.

The effectiveness of Vishnevsky ointment in the treatment of furunculosis

Vishnevsky ointment(full name - balsamic liniment according to Vishnevsky) - a combined drug that has complex composition and several active components.

Basic steps: disinfectant, irritant. Vishnevsky ointment destroys many types of pathogens. By irritating the skin, it stimulates tissue regeneration. With a boil, Vishnevsky’s ointment helps soften the walls of the abscess and allow it to penetrate deep into the tissue. This creates a threat of developing a subcutaneous abscess - an abscess. Therefore, the use of Vishnevsky ointment for boils is not practiced.

Why does a boil occur in a pregnant woman and how does it manifest?

Why is a boil dangerous during pregnancy?

Microbes can cause harm to the expectant mother, and so does the baby.

For mother

A weakened immune system sometimes causes Bacteria spread more easily through the bloodstream to other areas of the skin and organs, causing the development of furunculosis or complications (meningitis, lymphadenitis, sepsis and others).

For the fetus

Available high risk infection of the membranes and fetus. Moreover, the consequences depend on the duration of pregnancy.

In the first trimester

The formation of internal organs is disrupted, which leads to the formation birth defects development: heart, kidneys and others. Moreover, they are often incompatible with life, so a miscarriage occurs.

In the second trimester

  • Intrauterine infection of the fetus mainly manifests itself after birth. When the lungs are damaged, pneumonia or pleurisy develops, the heart - carditis, the meninges - meningitis and others.
  • When the membranes become infected, fetoplacental insufficiency develops (a syndrome in which all functions of the placenta are disrupted). As a result, the fetus experiences oxygen starvation, its growth and development are delayed, and the risk of premature birth increases.
  • There is a high probability of developing mastitis in the mother after the birth of the child.

What are the causes of chronic furunculosis?

Common factors contribute to the formation of the disease:

  • Severe disturbances in the functioning of all parts of the immune system - for example, with HIV infection, congenital immunodeficiency.
  • At taking medications to treat tumors- cytostatics that disrupt the division and development of all cells of the body, including tumor cells.
  • For autoimmune diseases(psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus) drugs are used that suppress the activity of the immune system (Arava, Methotrexate, Metypred).
  • Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: chronic gastroduodenitis, chronic cholecystitis, erosive bulbitis and others.
  • Disturbance of normal intestinal microflora with a predominance of coccal forms, which include Staphylococcus aureus.
  • The presence of foci of chronic infection. Most often - ENT organs: tonsillitis (tonsillitis), sinusitis, pharyngitis and others.
  • Endocrine diseases, causing disturbance carbohydrate metabolism (diabetes mellitus), production of hormones by the thyroid gland (thyroiditis) and sex glands (hypogonadism, amenorrhea).
  • The presence of allergic diseases or a tendency to allergic reactions: bronchial asthma, allergy to house dust and others. Because in these cases the functioning of the immune system is also impaired.

What are the symptoms of chronic furunculosis?

Most often, the disease occurs in a relapsing form - when, after a period of imaginary well-being (remission), signs of the disease reappear.

The course and manifestations of the disease are determined by the degrees of severity


What are the causes of boils in children?

Due to the characteristics of the body, the disease occurs somewhat more often in children than in adults.

The main “culprit” of the boil is Staphylococcus aureus. However, its reproduction is normally controlled by the immune system. Whereas with the combined influence of certain local and common factors the disease develops.

Local factors

  • Constant rubbing of clothing or minor skin injuries(abrasions, abrasions, scratches), which is not uncommon in children.
  • Allergic diseases - for example atopic dermatitis. There is dry skin, erosions and peeling appear on the skin, the child scratches the skin due to itching, and the functioning of the immune system is disrupted.
  • Close contact with contaminated objects- for example, while playing outside or in the sandbox.
  • Features of skin structure: Children have a thin upper (horny) layer of skin, it has a well-developed network of capillaries and blood supply. Therefore, any microbes enter the skin easily, and then quickly spread through the blood or lymph flow to other areas.
  • Poor personal hygiene leads to children introducing bacteria into a wound or abrasion with unwashed palms.

General factors

  • Presence in the body foci of chronic infection, in which colonies of staphylococci live (isolated cluster). From them, through the blood and/or lymph flow, bacteria are spread to all organs and tissues, including the skin. The leading diseases are from the ENT organs: chronic tonsillitis, sinusitis (sinusitis, frontal sinusitis).

  • Imperfect immune system, which matures in the process of growing up. Therefore, microbes easily penetrate the body without encountering obstacles on their way.

  • Endocrine disorders. In children and adolescents, as a rule, hormonal instability of the body plays a large role in the occurrence of boils.
    Under the influence of sex hormones, the functioning of the sebaceous glands is disrupted. Increased production of sebum begins, which leads to blockage of the outlet (mouth) of the sebaceous glands of the hair follicle (sac). In such conditions, infection occurs more easily. In addition, sebum is an excellent breeding ground for staphylococci.
    However, the development of furunculosis in adolescents and children is often promoted by other endocrine diseases, such as diabetes mellitus or dysfunction of the thyroid gland.

  • Gastrointestinal diseases: gastritis, colitis, ulcers and others. Digestion of food is disrupted, as is the supply of microelements and vitamins to the body. In addition, Staphylococcus aureus may be present in the intestines.

  • Anemia, lack of vitamins and nutrients, physical or emotional stress, anorexia in adolescents(decreased appetite, deliberate refusal to eat) lead to disruption of the immune system.

  • The intensive work of the sweat and sebaceous glands is due to immaturity of thermoregulation processes in children under seven years of age. As a result, sweat and sebum quickly accumulate on the surface of the skin. According to research, under such conditions, local immunity decreases, and the protective function of the skin decreases by 17 times.

  • Helminthiasis reduce the activity of the immune system, which is quite common in children.

What are the symptoms of boils in children?

A boil can develop on any area of ​​the skin where hair is present, since the disease affects the hair follicles and the adjacent sebaceous gland.

Whereas a boil never forms on the skin of the palms and soles, since there is no hair in these areas.

There are two forms of the disease:

  • A large single abscess appears on a limited area of ​​skin. In this case, with timely and adequate treatment, recovery usually occurs within 8-10 days.
  • Furunculosis develops: Many boils appear on the skin. The disease can be acute or chronic in its course.

Single boil in children

A large abscess appears, which in its development goes through the same stages as in adults.

However In children there are some differences in the course of the disease:

  • As a rule, several symptoms are more pronounced intoxication: body temperature rises to high levels (38-39°C), general malaise appears, the child refuses to eat, complains of headache.
  • Despite the rapid course of the disease, usually cure in children occurs in a shorter time than in adults. In addition, a chronic process develops less often.
  • Furuncle in children of wounded age(up to three years) is most often located in places that are difficult to reach for treatment - for example, at the base of the nasal passages.
    Whereas preschoolers and junior schoolchildren boils are mainly located on the nose (slopes, back and base of the nasal passages), forehead, cheeks and chin.
    In other areas of the skin, boils develop somewhat less frequently.
  • Due to the location of the boils, as well as the abundant and good blood supply to the skin, there is high risk of spreading infection from the primary focus with the development of acute furunculosis or complications (sepsis, thrombosis of the cavernous veins and others).

Furunculosis in children

Ulcers can appear either in the form of separate clusters on a certain area of ​​the skin or spread to other areas.

Acute furunculosis in children

There are several boils on the skin that appear almost simultaneously. Therefore, they are at the same stage of development.

In this case, as a rule, the child’s general condition is sharply disturbed: he becomes lethargic and refuses to eat, his body temperature rises to high levels and is difficult to lower.

In this case, the course of the disease usually resembles a severe infectious process. Moreover, the general trend is as follows: than younger child- the more severe the disease progresses.

Chronic furunculosis in children

Usually boils are located on different stages development: at the same time, red bumps, ulcers, and wounds can be seen on the skin after the rejection of pus.

However, most often the disease occurs in a relapsing form: periods of exacerbation alternate with periods of apparent well-being (remission).

The general condition of the child is usually disturbed when new boils appear, resembling acute course diseases.

How to treat chronic furunculosis?

This task is quite difficult, since numerous factors lead to its development. Therefore, an integrated approach is required.

Basic principles

1. Local and general treatment depending on the stage of development of the boil and the complications that have formed

At the compaction stage - local treatment with antiseptics, ultraviolet radiation, applications with antibacterial ointments. At the stage of rod formation, if necessary, the boils are opened, drained, treated with antiseptic solutions, and bandaged with antibacterial ointments are applied. When indicated, antibiotics are prescribed taking into account the sensitivity of the microbe to them.
2. Impact on the underlying disease

It is carried out at any stage of development of furunculosis: treatment of foci of chronic infection, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine diseases (for example, diabetes) and others. Therapy is carried out by specialized specialists: ENT doctor, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist and others.
3. Improving immune system function

An immunologist prescribes medications depending on the type of immune system disorder and the stage of the disease. With timely treatment, chronic furunculosis is cured in 80% of cases within 1-2 months of treatment.

How to increase immunity during furunculosis?

  • Antiseptics- drugs that prevent or suppress the growth of bacteria - Betadine (only up to 12 weeks of pregnancy), Chlorhexidine.
  • Ointments— Levomekol, Ichthyol, Syntomycin.

General treatment

Antibiotics are prescribed that are approved for use during pregnancy, taking into account the period: penicillins (Amoxiclav, Ampicillin), cephalosporins (Cefazolin, Ceftriaxone, Suprax, Cefepime), macrolides (Erythromycin, Rovamycin, Vilprafen).

However, antibiotics are only used in case of emergency:

  • When complications develop - for example, lymphadenitis (inflammation of the lymph nodes), lymphangitis (inflammation of the lymphatic vessels) and others.
  • If the boil is on dangerous place: face, neck, scalp.
  • For acute or chronic furunculosis.
  • In the presence of common diseases- for example, diabetes mellitus, HIV infection, pyelonephritis and others.

Use of drugs improving the functioning of the immune system, not recommended during pregnancy.

Treatment of foci of chronic infection

The most common “place of residence” of Staphylococcus aureus is the pharynx and nasopharynx. The microbe is detected by culture from the nasopharynx.

Local processing

1. Antiseptic solutions are used, which are approved for use during pregnancy and also inhibit the growth and reproduction of Staphylococcus aureus.

  • Alcohol solution used for gargling. Before use, it is diluted as follows: one teaspoon per 200 ml warm water.
  • Oil solution the pharynx, back wall of the pharynx, tonsils are processed and the nasal cavity is instilled.
  • Spray The mouth, throat and nose are irrigated.

All procedures are carried out 3-4 times a day. The course of treatment is 7-10 days.

2. Used staphylococcal bacteriophage which is safe for the fetus:

  • The nasopharynx is irrigated: two or three pipettes of the solution are inserted into each nasal passage. Anything that gets into your throat should be swallowed.
  • Then you should leave a cotton swab soaked in the bacteriophage in the cavity of each nostril for 5-7 minutes.

Treatment is carried out in the intervals between meals - from one to three times a day. Duration of treatment is 7-10 days.

Moreover, both drugs are also good because they carriage of staphylococcus in the intestines they can be used internally.

How to protect the fetus from infection?

Sometimes carried out immunization with staphylococcal toxoid at 32, 34 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. To do this, 0.5 ml of the drug is injected subcutaneously at the angle of the scapula.

What vitamins should I take for furunculosis?

Vitamins A and E improve skin nutrition and wound healing, promote cell renewal, and participate in protein synthesis.

Vitamin C increases the body's resistance to infections, improving the functioning of the immune system.

B vitamins normalize the functioning of the stomach, intestines, liver, endocrine glands (for example, thyroid), nervous system, participate in protein synthesis and other processes.

It is not difficult to compensate for the deficiency of such a number of vitamins at the same time. Since the modern pharmaceutical industry offers a large selection combination vitamin preparations, also containing minerals such as iron, calcium and others. For example Vitrum, Multi-Tabs, Centrum.

However, practice proves that it is still better take vitamins separately, in small courses.

For example, drugs with B vitamins- brewer's yeast, Milgamma, Neurobex, Tricortin and others. You can also compensate for the deficiency of B vitamins by taking dietary supplements - for example, Mega B Complex, B vitamins - dietary supplement "Tiens".

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid Available in tablets or dragees with similar names.


How is a boil treated for diabetes?

In compliance with the key principles: local treatment, prescription of immunostimulants, vitamins and other drugs.

However, when diabetes mellitus the main emphasis is on normalizing metabolism and carbohydrates: diet therapy (discussed in the section below) and prescription of medications.