Pustules: Pus-Filled Skin Lesions – Causes & Treatment

Pustule = small, raised skin lesion filled with pus (dead white cells, bacteria, debris).

Causes

• Bacterial – impetigo, folliculitis, acne.
• Viral – chickenpox, shingles.
• Allergic/Inflammatory – eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis.

Management

• Topical/systemic antibiotics (bacterial)
• Antivirals (viral)
• Anti-inflammatories, moisturizers (eczema/psoriasis)
• Avoid squeezing – spreads infection, causes scarring.

See a dermatologist for persistent or widespread pustules.