Folliculitis

Key Points
Inflammatory skin condition involving the hair follicles
Most cases are due to infectious organisms, such as bacterial Folliculitis, but can be due to fungal infection or can be noninfectious
Consists of pustules located on hair follicles, often pink or red in color, and may be painful or itchy

Folliculitis is a skin condition in which hair follicles become inflamed or infected. It consists of pustules located on the affected follicle, and will be surrounding by inflamed tissue that is pink or red in color. Mild cases will be tender and itchy, but in severe cases where the entire follicle becomes involves, lesions may become painful. Lesions may erupt and form scabs. Folliculits can affect almost any area aside from palms and soles, but there are favorite sites. These include the scalp, areas where shaving is common (face in men, legs, underarms, groin in women), and on the buttocks and thighs. Areas such as these, which are more susceptible due to the irritation from shaving or constant pressure and contact with clothing.

All age, gender and ethnic groups can develop Folliculitis. It is commonly due to an infection of the skin by bacteria. More rarely, fungal (yeast) Folliculitis can occur, often occurring on the upper torso or neck area following the use of antibiotics or in warm, humid climates. Conditions such as diabetes, weakened immune systems, underlying skin conditions, obesity, and excessive sweating can increase a person's susceptibility to the condition. Occasionally medications can cause Folliculitis.

Differential Diagnosis (Other conditions with similar appearance)

Acne Vulgaris
Impetigo
Acneiform Eruptions
Insect Bites
Candidiasis, Cutaneous
Coccidioidomycosis
Contact Dermatitis
Papular Urticaria
Perioral Dermatitis
Pruritic papular eruption of HIV disease
Rosacea

Diagnosis
Key Points
Diagnosis based on skin appearance
Laboratory testing may be performed to determine if a causal organism is at fault

Folliculitis is generally diagnosed based on appearance. Laboratory testing may be performed to determine if a causal organism is at fault for the condition.

Treatment
Mild cases often treated at home
Goal of treatment is to control symptoms and prevent infection
In severe cases, more aggressive treatment may be pursued by health care professionals
*Antibiotics may be prescribed for those patients who experience infection
OTC Options: Antibacterial soap, antibiotic creams

Mild cases of Folliculitis can often be treated at home. It is recommended that affected persons use antibacterial soap, apply hot compresses to the affected area, and wear loose fitting clothing. Cortisone creams can help to alleviate itching and irritation of the affected area. Launder all clothing and linens to prevent further infection, and wear loose fitting clothing to prevent further irritation.

If the condition does not subside within a few days, it is recommended that you contact health care professionals. Determining the causal organism is the first step in devising a course of treatment. Health care professionals may prescribe antibacterial washes, topical antibiotics, or oral antibiotics to combat the condition. If the strain of bacteria causing the condition is drug-resistant, a combination of these therapies may be prescribed, including oral antibiotic combinations.