Folliculitis can lead to furuncles (boils) or carbuncles (large furuncles). However, most furuncles do not develop from a preexisting folliculitis. The furuncle is a deep-seated, red, inflamed, tender nodule. Furuncles can occur in any location and are commonly found within the nostril. The nostril is a location that S. aureus is known to colonize. Furuncles may become quite large and spontaneously drain to the surface. Before the drainage occurs, one can often appreciate the presence of a pustule developing within the central portion of the furuncle. Carbuncles appear to result from the coalescence of multiple furuncles. They can be large and can have multiple draining sinus tracts to the surface of the epidermis. Multiple pustules may precede the drainage. Pain and localized adenopathy are hallmarks of both furuncles and carbuncles.
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