Area can become indurated, and frequently streaks of lymphangitis can be seen with involvement of the regional lymph nodes. Systemic symptoms are common, and bacteremia and septicemia may follow. A common problem with predisposing factors such as maceration, friction, and the use of irritant chemicals. Scarring may occur with destruction of the hair follicle with severe infections. Tenderness, itching, and pain may occur.
Complications can include cellulitis, furunculosis, and alopecia.
An acute, localized perifollicular abscess of the skin and subcutaneous tissue caused by coagulase-positive S. aureus resulting in a red, hot, very tender inflammatory nodule that exudes pus from one opening. A carbuncle is an aggregate of connected furuncles and characteristically is painful and has several pustular openings. This can be an acute or chronic problem with lesions commonly on areas of friction such as buttocks, axillae, breasts, and the nape of the neck. Incision and drainage is generally required. Prevention is often difficult.