Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs CarbuncleUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewCarbuncles form when one or more hair follicles get infected. They often occur on the back of the neck, shoulders, or thighs. SymptomsCarbuncles fill with pus, growing larger and more painful until they rupture and drain. People who have a carbuncle often feel unwell and may experience fever and chills. TreatmentsSometimes carbuncles drain and heal with self-care. Others require an incision and drainage by a doctor. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use