Furuncles

Question 1

What is a furuncle?

Answer 1

Commonly known as a boil. It is an infection of the deepest portion of a hair follicle that spreads to the surrounding tissue.

Question 2

Where are furuncles commonly found?

Answer 2

Face, scalp, thighs, perineum, and buttocks.

Question 3

What is the difference between furuncles and carbuncles?

Answer 3

Carbuncles are a series of furuncles where the infection has spread subcutaneously.

Question 4

What is the TCM aetiology of furuncles?

Answer 4

Damp-heat toxins accumulating in the skin.

Question 5

What is the tx principle for furuncles?

Answer 5

Clear heat and toxins and resolve dampness.

Question 6

What is the internal formula for furuncles?

Answer 6

Wu wei xiao du yin.