Scalp folliculitis is an inflammatory disorder of the hair follicles in the scalp. When an untreated folliculitis becomes bigger and affects the surrounding and deeper tissue it is called furucle.
Causes for Folliculitis
Most commonly caused by a bacteria Staphylococcus Aureus .The lesions are itchy and dome shaped, pus filled, with redness surrounding the hair follicle. If the condition is left untreated it causes excessive hair loss, spread of infection to the deeper layers leading to a painful condition called furuncle which leads to permanent hair loss and a scar at the site.
Symptoms
- Itching.
- Pain and Tenderness.
- Large swollen bump or mass
- Pus filled blisters that break open
- Clusters of small, red bumps on scalp that may have a white head that develop around the hair follicles
Recurrent furunculosis - three or more attacks within a 12 month period is recurrent furunculosis. Colonization of S. aureus in the anterior nares plays a definite role in causing chronic or recurrent furunculosis.
Risk factors
Positive family history, anemia, previous antibiotic therapy, diabetes mellitus, previous hospitalization, poor personal hygiene, and associated skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, chronic wounds, or leg ulcers increase the susceptibility to bacterial colonization and are more prone to develop furunculosis
Treatment for Folliculitis
Treatment varies from patient to patient depending on the severity of condition
The following medications may be helpful for scalp folliculitis:
- Topical antibiotics
- Mild topical steroid lotions or creams
- Oral antihistamines
- Oral antibiotics
- Oral isotretinoin
With proper history and examination of the scalp we arrive at the diagnosis . At 4 senses we have a magnifier and dermatoscope which would help the doctor identify even the smallest lesion hidden in the scalp. We also evaluate thoroughly in cases of recurrent or chronic folliculitis & furunculosis to identify the underlying risk factor. Thus not only helping in treating the current condition but also preventing the recurrences in future. For Doctor’s Appointment Contact Call: 6366494494