pusting

Pusting is a term used in dermatology and pathology to describe the formation or presence of pustules—small, raised, pus-filled lesions on the skin or mucous membranes. A pustule typically contains purulent material and is surrounded by inflamed tissue. Pusting can occur as a feature of various conditions, including bacterial skin infections such as folliculitis or impetigo, inflammatory skin diseases such as acne with pustular lesions and pustular psoriasis, and certain drug eruptions.

The term functions primarily as a descriptive observation rather than a diagnosis. Physicians differentiate pustules by size, distribution, surrounding inflammation, and whether the pustules are sterile or infected. Diagnostic workup may include clinical examination, bacterial culture of lesion exudate, and, when appropriate, skin biopsy.

Pathophysiology: Pustules form when neutrophils and inflammatory debris accumulate within the epidermis or hair follicles, producing a localized collection of pus. This can result from infection, immune-mediated inflammation, or sterile follicular inflammation.

Treatment: Management targets the underlying cause. For bacterial infections, topical or oral antibiotics may be used; for inflammatory conditions, corticosteroids, retinoids, or immunomodulators may be prescribed. General skin care and avoiding irritants are supportive measures. Some pustular diseases, such as generalized pustular psoriasis, require rapid medical treatment and sometimes hospitalization.

Etymology and usage: The word is formed from pus and the gerund suffix -ing and is chiefly used as a descriptive term in clinical notes rather than a standalone disease.