DermNet provides Google Translate, a free machine translation service. Note that this may not provide an exact translation in all languages
Home Topics A–Z Pustular skin conditions
Author: Dr Amanda Oakley, Dermatologist, Hamilton, New Zealand, September 2015. DermNet NZ Revision September 2021
Pustules are smaller than 5–10 mm, and filled with pus, that is, purulent material composed of inflammatory cells (neutrophils).
This topic provides a differential diagnosis of pustular skin conditions.
Generalised pustular psoriasis
Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP)
Impetigo
Furunculosis
Bacterial folliculitis
Kerion
Candidal intertrigo
Miliaria
Acne vulgaris
Acneform eruptions
Scabies
Dermatophyte infections
Palmoplantar pustulosis
Many skin conditions present with pustules - see links to more On DermNet NZ in the Related Information Section below.
Books about skin diseases
© 2022 DermNet New Zealand Trust.
DermNet NZ does not provide an online consultation service. If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice.