Pustules: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

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Pustules

Images

Pustules, superficial on the arm

Acne - close-up of pustular lesions

Acne, cystic on the face

Alopecia areata with pustules

Dermatitis, pustular contact

Acne

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

Considerations

Pustules are common in acne. They may occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly seen on the face, shoulders, back, and over the breastbone, and in areas of increased sweating such as the groin and armpit. Pustules may be a sign of a bacterial infection.

Update Date: 10/18/2006

Updated by: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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Pustules

Images

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Considerations

Update Date: 10/18/2006