Overview
A furuncle of the axilla, also known as a boil, is an acute, localized infection of the hair follicle and surrounding tissue, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus. It presents as a painful, red, swollen nodule that may progress to form a pus-filled core. [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]Diagnosis
Clinical presentation: Painful, erythematous, warm nodule with possible central purulence.
No specific diagnostic tests universally recommended; imaging or cultures may be considered in atypical cases or complications. [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]Management
Incision and drainage: Essential for resolution, often performed under local anesthesia. [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]
Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics such as dicloxacillin or cephalexin are commonly prescribed to cover Staphylococcus aureus. [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]
Warm compresses: Application to promote drainage and alleviate discomfort. [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]Special Populations
Pregnancy: Management similar to non-pregnant adults; however, antibiotic choice should avoid teratogenic risks (e.g., avoid tetracyclines). [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]
Pediatrics: Similar treatment principles apply, but dosing adjustments are necessary based on age and weight. [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]
Elderly: Increased vigilance for systemic spread; consider broader spectrum antibiotics if comorbidities like diabetes are present. [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]
Comorbidities: Patients with diabetes or immunodeficiency may require more aggressive antibiotic therapy and closer monitoring for complications. [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]Key Recommendations
Perform incision and drainage for symptomatic furuncles to promote healing and prevent complications. (Evidence: Expert opinion) [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]
Prescribe first-generation cephalosporins or dicloxacillin for empirical treatment of suspected Staphylococcus aureus infection. (Evidence: Expert opinion) [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]
Monitor for signs of systemic infection in patients with comorbidities such as diabetes or immunodeficiency, considering broader antibiotic coverage if necessary. (Evidence: Expert opinion) [Not directly addressed in provided abstracts]References
1 Wladis EJ, Aakalu VK, Sobel RK, Yen MT, Bilyk JR, Mawn LA. Orbital Implants in Enucleation Surgery: A Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Ophthalmology 2018. link
2 Custer PL, Kennedy RH, Woog JJ, Kaltreider SA, Meyer DR. Orbital implants in enucleation surgery: a report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Ophthalmology 2003. link00857-1)
3 den Tonkelaar I, Henkes HE, van Leersum GK. Herman Snellen (1834-1908) and Müller's 'reform-auge'. A short history of the artificial eye. Documenta ophthalmologica. Advances in ophthalmology 1991. link