Pus pocket

I am concerned because my father in law has developed a sizable pus pocket on the front of his neck close to the shoulder area. He is terminally ill with what started out as gangrene in his toe (inoperable because of other health conditions) and has now spread to a little above his ankle. I am concerned that on top of everything else this might be a staph infection. I mentioned it to his nurses and they said they'll mention it to his wound doctor on Monday. In the meantime do those of us who visit him have anything to worry about or should we take special precautions?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
If it is a pus pocket definitely it can be a staph infection. It can also be a boil or a carbuncle. Boils are caused by infection of the hair follicle by staph aureus and are very painful unless they drain spontaneously or an incision is given by a doctor. Apply warm compresses and Neosporin ointment and avoid messing with it. You can give your father in law anti-inflammatory pain killers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

However he may require oral antibiotics and incision and drainage also.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[ladybugmom57]

Dr. Bhupinder,
Thank you so much for your response. The wound doctor said that these pus pockets were common with people who like my father in law are laying for a long time and no longer can get up and move around. He said the pockets (I'm sure there is a better name but that's the best I can use to describe them) would come and go so the staff is using a special solution on them, As for how I am doing, it is pretty tough to watch his journey but it gives me a newfound respect for the medical profession. Again, thank you for the answer.

[maatson]

S. aureus is transmitted primarily through direct person-to-person contact, especially through the hands of health care workers. The role of hand-washing is much to be emphasized here for attendants and visitors alike.
Best wishes.

[ladybugmom57]

Thank you! We'll make a point to make sure all who come in have washed their hands. We appreciate your response and I'm looking up S.aureus.
Have a great day!

[ladybugmom57]

Thank You!

[ladybugmom57]

I'd like to thank both of you for answering my question. My father in law passed way last Wednesday but I feel that I was more knowledgeable and prepared and a lot of  was due to your help...God bless!

[maatson]

Condolences.May his soul rest in peace.

[ladybugmom57]

thank you!