A circumscribed inflammation of the tissue under the skin, leading to death of part of the tissue and of the skin over it. The disease is a constitutional one, and generally comes from a depressed state of health. It is usually situated on the back of the neck or trunk, but sometimes on other part and even on the face. There is a large hard swelling, extremely painful, and this is often accompanied by a low fever of the typhoid type.
Diagnosis.-A carbuncle is an exaggerated boil, from which it is distinguished chiefly by its large size and the gravity of the accompanying symptoms.
General Treatment.-The strength of the patient must be kept up, and if the constitutional symptoms are not severe, he need not be confined to the room or even to the house. Linseed poultices should be applied until suppuration has taken place, and the Calendula lotion (thirty drops to the ounce) kept applied and frequently changed. When healing is commencing, Boracic acid ointment (powdered Boracic acid, one drachm to the ounce of vaseline) should be used instead.
Medicines. (Every hour at first.)
Arnica 3.-
At the beginning.
Nux. v. 3.-
When occurring in drunkards.
Arsen. 3.-
Burning pain, worse at night, restlessness, irritability, weakness, thirst; typhoid state.
Carb. veg. 6.-
Dark appearance of carbuncle; general low state.
Silica 6.-
After it has begun to discharge.
