Folliculitis: A bacterial infection
of the hair follicle. The infection may be superficial or deep .
Folliculitis causes pustule formation. Folliculitis may also lead
to the development of furuncles (Furunculosis), commonly
called boils, or carbuncles (Carbunculosis), usually caused
by Staphylococcus aureus. It is exacerbated by irritation, pressure,
friction, or perspiration. Prognosis depends on the infection's severity
and on the patient's conditions and ability to resist infection.
Cause: Most common bacteria is staphylococcus
aureus. Risk factors include poor personal hygiene, debilitation,
diabetes, an infected wound elsewhere on the body, exposure to chemicals
(cutting oils), and management of skin lesions with tar or with occlusive
therapy, using steroids.
Symptoms:
In folliculitis:
pustules usually appear on the scalp, arms, and legs in children; on the
faces of bearded men (sycosis barbae); and on the eyelids (sties).
Pain
In furunculosis:
may develop hard painful nodules (furuncles). Nodules commonly
appear on the neck, face, axillae, and buttocks. As they become enlarge
after several days, they rupture, discharging pus and necrotic material.
Pain
Erythema and edema may persist for several weeks.
In Carbunculosis:
the patient develops extremely painful deep abscesses. These drain
through multiple openings onto the skin surface, usually around several
hair follicles.
Fever
Malaise
Treatment:
Make sure the infected area is clean thoroughly
with soap and water before applying medication.
With all medications use as prescribed by your
doctor.
Topical antibiotics such as: bacitracin
and polymyxinb
For recurrent infection: systemic antibiotics.
Furuncles may also require incision and drainage
of ripe lesions after application of hot, wet compresses, and topical antibiotics
after drainage. (consult with your doctor)
Carbunculosis requires systemic antibiotics.
