Boil vs. Cyst: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 30, 2023
A boil is a skin infection involving a hair follicle, while a cyst is a closed sac that can contain air, fluid, or semi-solid material.
Key Differences
A boil, also known as a furuncle, is a red, swollen, and painful lump on the skin that is caused by a bacterial infection, typically Staphylococcus aureus. Cysts, on the other hand, are typically not caused by infection and can occur anywhere on the body, including internal organs.
Boils typically develop as a result of a hair follicle becoming infected with bacteria, causing a localized area of inflammation and pus formation. Cysts can develop due to various reasons, including blockage of a duct, infection, or chronic inflammation, and they are typically filled with air, fluid, or semi-solid material.
Boils are usually painful and can rupture, draining pus and relieving the pressure and pain. Cysts, on the other hand, are typically not painful unless they become infected, at which point they can resemble boils.
Treatment for boils typically involves drainage of the pus and sometimes antibiotics to clear the infection. Treatment for cysts depends on the cause and can include drainage, medications, or surgery to remove the cyst.
Comparison Chart
Cause
Bacterial infection
Blockage, infection, chronic inflammation
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Location
Skin, hair follicle
Anywhere on the body, including organs
Pain
Painful
Not usually painful (unless infected)
Treatment
Drainage, antibiotics
Drainage, medications, surgery
Rupture
Can rupture and drain pus
Can rupture, but less common
Boil and Cyst Definitions
Boil
Boils are typically caused by bacterial infections.
Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of boils.
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Cyst
Cysts can occur anywhere on the body, including internal organs.
He had a cyst removed from his liver.
Boil
Boils are typically treated with drainage and antibiotics.
The boil was treated with antibiotics and eventually went away.
Cyst
Cysts are typically not caused by infection.
Unlike boils, cysts are not usually the result of a bacterial infection.
Boil
Boils can develop as a result of an infected hair follicle.
She noticed a boil forming where she had accidentally nicked herself shaving.
Cyst
Cysts may not be painful unless infected.
The cyst was not painful until it became infected.
Boil
A boil is a skin infection that forms a painful, red lump.
He developed a boil on his neck that had to be drained by a doctor.
Cyst
A cyst is a closed sac that can contain air, fluid, or semi-solid material.
The doctor diagnosed her lump as a benign cyst.
Boil
Boils can be painful and may rupture, releasing pus.
The boil ruptured on its own, relieving the pressure and pain.
Cyst
Treatment for cysts depends on the cause and may include drainage, medications, or surgery.
The cyst was drained and did not require further treatment.
FAQs
What is a boil?
A boil is a skin infection that forms a painful, red lump.
Can a boil be treated at home?
It is possible to treat some boils at home, but it is recommended to seek medical attention.
Can a boil be caused by a cyst?
No, boils are caused by bacterial infections, while cysts are not.
Can a cyst lead to serious complications?
It is possible, although less common than with boils.
What is a cyst?
A cyst is a closed sac that can contain air, fluid, or semi-solid material.
How are cysts treated?
Treatment for cysts depends on the cause and may include drainage, medications, or surgery.
Where can cysts occur?
Cysts can occur anywhere on the body, including internal organs.
Are cysts painful?
Cysts are typically not painful unless infected.
Can a boil be caused by a virus?
No, boils are typically caused by bacterial infections.
Can a cyst rupture on its own?
It is possible, although less common than with boils.
What causes a boil?
Boils are typically caused by bacterial infections.
What causes a cyst?
Cysts can be caused by blockage of a duct, infection, or chronic inflammation.
Are boils painful?
Yes, boils are typically painful.
Can a cyst become infected?
Yes, cysts can become infected, at which point they may resemble boils.
Can a cyst be caused by a virus?
It is possible, although cysts are more commonly caused by blockage or inflammation.
Can a boil rupture on its own?
Yes, boils can rupture on their own, releasing pus.
Are boils and cysts the same thing?
No, boils are caused by bacterial infections and are typically painful, while cysts are caused by blockage or inflammation and are not usually painful.
How are boils treated?
Boils are typically treated with drainage and antibiotics.
Can a cyst be treated at home?
Some small cysts may go away on their own, but it is recommended to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Can a boil lead to serious complications?
Yes, if left untreated, boils can lead to serious complications.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
