FURUNCULUS. BOIL.
Definition: pustule with necrotic core. Digital region. Microbes. Symptoms: Prevention: antisepsis. Treatment: phenol, iodine, alcohol, boric or salicylic acid, iron, bitters, calcium sulphide, sulphur, sodium sulphite.
A deep seated inflammation of the derma resulting in suppuration with the formation of a central adherent necrotic slough or core.
Boils are not uncommon on the digital region of horses in winter; or where the parts are exposed to street mud containing an abundance of decomposing organic matter. They are unquestionably due to pyogenic microbes, and have been largely associated with staphylococcus pyogenes aureus. As they often come out in successive crops, it may be assumed that the second focus is infected from the first, or that there is a special susceptibility in the particular animal system, or that both these factors contribute to the result. Debility, and traumas contribute to bring about the infection.
Symptoms. A nodular, hot, and very painful swelling, implicating the substance of the true skin, and surrounded by a hot, swollen zone, progresses to suppuration in the centre, yet when it bursts, or is opened, a core or small mass of necrotic, tough, fibrous tissue is found to be firmly adherent in the center of the bottom of the sore.
Prevention. Must be sought in sustaining the general health and in preserving the greatest cleanliness of stables and skin. Washing with a weak antiseptic solution when returning from muddy streets may be of use.
Treatment. When developing, the application of carbolic acid in crystal or on the end of a glass rod may often relieve the pain and destroy the microbes. Next day the part may be painted with tincture of iodine. If already opened the phenol may still be applied and followed after five minutes by alcohol to check the caustic action. Or boric or salicylic acid may be applied. To counteract the constitutional tendency, iron, bitters and other tonics and antiseptics, calcium sulphide, sulphur and sodium sulphite may be given.