Carbuncle

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A carbuncle is a cluster of boils caused by bacterial infection, most commonly with Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref> The presence of a carbuncle is a sign that the immune system is active and fighting the infection.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The infection is contagious and may spread to other areas of the body, or other people; those living in the same residence may develop carbuncles at the same time.<ref name=":0">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In the early 21st century, infection involving methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become more common.<ref name=":1">Template:Cite news</ref>

Signs and symptoms

A carbuncle is a cluster of several boils, which is typically filled with purulent exudate (dead neutrophils, phagocytized bacteria, and other cellular components).<ref>Template:Cite book</ref> Fluid may drain freely from the carbuncle, or intervention involving an incision and drainage procedure may be needed.<ref name=":1" /> Carbuncles may develop anywhere, but they are most common on the back and the nape of the neck.<ref name=":0" />

A carbuncle is palpable and can range in size from as small as a pea to as large as a golf ball. The surrounding area is indurated. Later, skin on the centre of the carbuncle softens and peripheral satellite vesicles appear; these rupture, discharging pus, and give rise to cribriform appearance.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2">Template:Cite news</ref> As the impending infection develops, itching may occur. There may be localized erythema or skin irritation, and the area may be painful when touched. Sometimes more severe symptoms may occur, such as fatigue, fever, chills, and general malaise as the body fights the infection.<ref name=":2" />

Cause

Infections by bacteria, commonly strep and staph. Template:Empty section

Society and culture

Etymology

The word is believed to have originated from the Latin: carbunculus, originally a small coal; diminutive of carbon-, carbo: charcoal or ember, but also a carbuncle stone, "precious stones of a red or fiery colour", usually garnets.<ref>OED, "Carbuncle": 1) stone, 3) medical</ref>

Metaphor: the "monstrous carbuncle"

In 1984, Charles III, then Prince of Wales, described the proposed Sainsbury Wing extension to the National Gallery in London as a "monstrous carbuncle on the face of a much-loved and elegant friend",<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> a term he has used since to describe other pieces of architecture.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref>