Folliculitis of the scalp

What is scalp folliculitis?

Scalp folliculitis is a inflammatory disorder of the hair follicles on the scalp The condition is also known as "acne necrotica miliaris" or "Proprionibacterium folliculitis."

Scalp folliculitis is characterized by a small, very intense itch. pustules on the scalp, often most problematic on the front hairline. There may be only a small number of injuries, or they can be very numerous. They are difficult to leave alone due to the itchiness. They often become sore and crusty.

See more pictures of scalp folliculitis.

What is the cause of scalp folliculitis?

The cause of scalp folliculitis is not well understood. It is generally considered an inflammatory reaction to hair components. follicle, particularly the micro-organisms. These include:

• The bacteria (especially Cutibacterium acnes, but in severe cases, also Staphylococcus aureus)
• YeastsMalassezia species)
• Mites (Demodex folliculorum)

What is the treatment for scalp folliculitis?

The scalp affected by folliculitis should be washed with a mild normal shampoo as often as desired. Anti-dandruff shampoos that contain antifungal agents such as ketoconazole or ciclopirox are sometimes helpful. Conditioner can be used if desired.

The following medications may be helpful for scalp folliculitis:

• Current antibiotics (eg, fusidic acid gel), clindamycin solution, erythromycin solution

• Mild topical steroid lotions or creams

• Oral antihistamines
• Oral antibiotics, particularly long-term tetracycline.
• Oral isotretinoin: long-term treatment with low doses may be necessary

What is necrotic acne?

Necrotic acne is a more severe form of scalp folliculitis, also known as "varioliform acne" or "frontal acne." In this condition, larger follicular places (papules) become inflamed and then develop blackened scabs, eventually leaving permanent scars like smallpox. Necrotic acne can affect the face, scalp, or other areas.

What is peripholliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens?

Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens is also known as "dissecting cellulitis" or folliculitis, or "peripholliculitis capitis."

Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens is a rare and serious form of scalp folliculitis, sometimes associated with acne conglobata, hidradenitis suppurativa, and spinal cord. arthritis (spondyloarthropathy). It most often affects black adult men, but can rarely occur in fair-skinned individuals, women, and children.

Big nodules and cysts accompany smaller follicular papules and pustules, of which purulent The material can be expressed. Temporary hair loss over the lesions eventually results in permanent scars and bald patches.

Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens is highly resistant to treatment. Severity can be reduced with oral isotretinoin, antibiotics, dapsone, and injected or systemic steroids compression fluctuating Nodules have also been reported to be beneficial.