Etymed
carbunculosis
Definition
A pathological condition characterized by the formation of carbuncles or boils
Clinical context
A 35-year-old man presents with multiple painful, red nodules on his neck and back that have been progressively worsening over 3 weeks. On examination, there are multiple fluctuant masses with central necrotic cores. Culture of the pus reveals Staphylococcus aureus. The patient has a history of diabetes mellitus. The condition is diagnosed as carbunculosis with multiple interconnected boils forming a destructive pattern.
Mnemonic
CARBUNCULOSIS = C - Carbuncles, A - boils, R - red, B - bovine, U - ulceration, N - necrotic, C - cluster, U - ulcerative, L - large, O - oozing, S - skin
These morphemes also unlock…
- carbuncul/o — boil; carbuncle
- -osis — abnormal condition