What does furunculosis mean?
Furunculosis is a bacterial infection of the skin or hair follicles that is characterized by the formation of painful abscesses or boils. It is typically treated with antibiotics and can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene and avoiding tight clothing that can cause friction and irritation. Furunculosis can be a recurring condition, and in some cases, it can lead to more serious complications if left untreated. In medical contexts, furunculosis is often used to describe a specific type of skin infection that requires prompt treatment. While it is often used interchangeably with the term 'furuncle', 'furunculosis' implies a more widespread or recurring infection. Overall, furunculosis is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications and promote healing.
nounA bacterial infection of the skin or hair follicles, characterized by the formation of painful abscesses or boils.
- A bacterial infection of the skin or hair follicles, characterized by the formation of painful abscesses or boils.
"The patient was diagnosed with furunculosis and required antibiotics to clear up the infection."
"The patient was diagnosed with furunculosis and required antibiotics to clear up the infection."
"The doctor warned the patient that furunculosis could lead to more serious complications if left untreated."
The plural form 'furunculoses' is used to describe multiple instances of the infection.
"The patient had multiple episodes of furunculosis throughout the year."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of furunculosis
The term 'furunculosis' is derived from the Latin words 'furunculus', meaning 'boil' or 'abscess', and the Greek suffix '-osis', meaning 'disease' or 'condition'. The word has been used in medical contexts since the 17th century to describe a specific type of skin infection.
How furunculosis is actually used
Furunculosis is typically used in formal or medical contexts to describe a specific type of skin infection. It is often used interchangeably with the term 'furuncle', although 'furunculosis' implies a more widespread or recurring infection.