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Pustules

 

Pustules are small, inflamed, pus-filled, blister-like sores (lesions) on the skin surface.

Pustules are common in acne and folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicle). They may occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly seen in these areas:

  • Back
  • Face
  • Over the breastbone
  • Shoulders
  • Sweaty areas, such as the groin or armpit

Pustules may be a sign of an infection. In some cases, they are non-infectious and associated with inflammation in the skin or medicines. They should be checked by a health care provider and may need to be tested (cultured) for bacteria or fungus.

 

Open References

References

Dinulos JGH. Principles of diagnosis and anatomy. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 1.

Marks JG, Miller JJ. Pustules. In: Marks JG, Miller JJ, eds. Lookingbill and Marks' Principles of Dermatology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 12.

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  • Pustules - superficial on the arm

    Pustules - superficial on the arm

    illustration

  • Acne - close-up of pustular lesions

    Acne - close-up of pustular lesions

    illustration

  • Acne - cystic on the face

    Acne - cystic on the face

    illustration

  • Dermatitis - pustular contact

    Dermatitis - pustular contact

    illustration

    • Pustules - superficial on the arm

      Pustules - superficial on the arm

      illustration

    • Acne - close-up of pustular lesions

      Acne - close-up of pustular lesions

      illustration

    • Acne - cystic on the face

      Acne - cystic on the face

      illustration

    • Dermatitis - pustular contact

      Dermatitis - pustular contact

      illustration

     

    Review Date: 11/4/2020

    Reviewed By: Elika Hoss, MD, Senior Associate Consultant, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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