Furuncles are generally caused by Staphylococcus aureus but may be caused by other bacteria or fungi. A furuncle may drain spontaneously, producing pus. More often the individual, a parent, or a physician opens them. Furuncles can be single or multiple. Some people have recurrent bouts with abscesses and little success at preventing them.
Furuncles can be very painful if they occur in areas like the ear canal or nose.
A health care provider should treat furuncles by the nose. Furuncles that develop close together may expand and join together, a condition called carbunculosis . Signs and tests Return to top Diagnosis is primarily based on the appearance of the skin. Skin or mucosal biopsy culture may show staphylococcus or other bacteria. Treatment Return to top Boils may heal spontaneously after an initial period of itching and mild pain.