Most carbuncles are caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S aureus). A carbuncle is a cluster of several skin boils (furuncles

). The infected mass is filled with fluid, pus, and dead tissue. Fluid may drain out of the carbuncle, but sometimes the mass is so deep that it cannot drain on its own.

Why do you get carbuncles?

What are the causes of a carbuncle? A carbuncle usually develops when Staphylococcus aureus bacteria enter your hair follicles. These bacteria are also referred to as “staph.” Scrapes and other broken skin make it easy for bacteria to enter your body and cause an infection.

How are carbuncle formed?

A furuncle, also known as a boil, is a painful infection that forms around a hair follicle and contains pus. A carbuncle is collection of boils that develop under the skin. When bacteria infect hair follicles, the follicles can swell and turn into boils and carbuncles.