Strategies for the management of recurrent furunculosis

Furuncles are common infections of hair follicles. Staphylococcus aureus is frequently the causative agent, though other bacteria may also be pathogenic, especially for furuncles in the vulvovaginal area, the perirectal area, and the buttocks. A simple furuncle can be treated by incision and drainage. Systemic antibiotics are indicated in only special circumstances, and Gram stain is helpful in choosing an appropriate one. Some patients are plagued by recurrent furuncles because of follicular abnormalities, climatic conditions, colonization by pathogenic strains, reinfection, debility, or immunodeficiency. I present various strategies for treatment and prevention of recurrent furunculosis.