Pustules
Pustules are small, inflamed, pus-filled, blister-like sores (lesions) on the skin surface.
An infection of the topmost layers of the skin, especially one caused by staphylococci, may produce pustules, which look like small blisters containing a thick, yellowish material.
Acne lesions frequently contain pus. This close-up photograph shows small acne pustules with surrounding inflammation (erythema).
The face is the most common location of acne. Here, there are 4 to 6 millimeter red (erythematous) pustules, some with bridging scars and fistulous tract formation (connecting passages). Severe acne may have a profound psychological impact and may cause scarring. Effective treatments are available for this type of acne.
This is a close-up of a dermatitis reaction. It consists of a large, red (erythematous) lesion (plaque) with numerous small pus-filled areas (pustules).
Considerations
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 taking certain medicines. They should be checked by a health care provider and may need to be tested (cultured) for bacteria or fungus.
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.
Version Info
Last reviewed on: 11/30/2022
Reviewed by: Ramin Fathi, MD, FAAD, Director, Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, Phoenix, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
