A skin abscess (boil) is a pocket of pus under the skin, usually from a bacterial infection. “Community MRSA” (CA-MRSA) is a common cause—it’s a type of Staph bacteria that’s harder to treat with some antibiotics but still manageable.
How it looks and feels
- A red, swollen, painful lump that may feel warm and tender.
- May come to a “head” and drain pus.
- Sometimes nearby redness (cellulitis) and fever.
What to do right away
- Warm compresses 3–4 times a day can help it come to a head and drain.
- Do not squeeze or cut it yourself—this can worsen infection or spread it.
When to seek care urgently
- Very large or worsening swelling, severe pain, fever, or spreading redness.
- Abscess on the face, near the eye, in the groin, or on the buttock crease.
- If you have diabetes, poor circulation, a weakened immune system, or are very young/elderly.
Treatment in clinic
- Incision and drainage (I&D): the main treatment. A clinician numbs the skin, opens the abscess, and drains pus. Often a small wick/gauze is placed briefly.
- Antibiotics: sometimes added (especially for MRSA risk, fever, large area, surrounding cellulitis, or high-risk patients). Common choices cover MRSA, like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, doxycycline, or clindamycin, depending on local patterns and allergies.
- Pain relief and wound care instructions are provided.
Preventing spread and recurrence
- Keep the wound covered with a clean, dry bandage until healed.
- Wash hands after touching the area; don’t share towels, razors, or sports gear.
- Shower after sports; cover any cuts early.
- If abscesses keep coming back, your clinician may suggest a short “decolonization” plan (for example, mupirocin ointment in the nostrils and antiseptic body wash for several days) and checking close contacts for similar issues.