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FOLLICULITIS
ABSTRACT -
Folliculitis is a common skin disorder, caused by inflammation and infection in the hair follicles which can also be seen on the face, arms, upper back and lower legs. This condition is usually a bacterial or fungal infection which creates small red bumps or white-headed pimples around the hair follicles. This infection can spread and lead to non-healing, crusty sores.
Types –- Bacterial Folliculitis
- Hot Tub Folliculitis
- Razor Bumps
- Pityrosporum Folliculitis
CAUSES -
- Staphylococcus aureus bacteria
- Viruses, fungi and inflammation
- Shaving
- Tight hair braids and clothing
- Ingrown hair cysts
- Sweating or use of other personal products
- Skin – Clogged pores or conditions such as acne or dermatitis
- Skin injury by cuts or insect bites
- Use of infected hot tub or swimming pool
- HIV or cancer (weakened immune system)
- Obesity
- Excessive use of medications which includes antibiotics or steroidal creams
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS -
- Small red bumps
- White-headed pimples
- Pus-filled and crusty blisters
- Swollen bump or mass over the skin
- Red and inflamed skin
- Pain, itching, burning and tenderness on skin
- Mild fever
COMPLICATIONS –
- Skin damage such as scars or dark patches
- Hair follicle damage and permanent hair loss
- Frequent and recurrent spread of follicle infections to skin and other areas
- Cellulitis infecting the skin
- Boils under the skin (Furunculosis)
DIAGNOSIS -
- Physical examination
- Dermoscopy: Microscopic examination of the skin
- Sample testing of infected skin or hair by swabbing
- In rare cases, skin biopsy is done
TREATMENT -
- Medications like antibiotic creams, oral corticosteroids or pills
- Minor surgery
- Laser hair removal therapy
- Light therapy or photodynamic therapy helps to treat acne and remove bacteria, fungi, and viruses
- Lancing helps to drain a boil and the pus
PREVENTIONS-
- Avoid wearing tight fitting, sweaty clothes
- Avoid insensitive, strong and harsh chemicals or personal care products
- Avoid inappropriate shaving techniques and blunted shaving tools
- Don’t use unclean hot tubs and pools
EPIDEMIOLOGY -
- It can affect any population irrespective of the gender
- The prevalence is more seen in adults than children.
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