Folliculitis

Question 1

What is folliculitis?

Answer 1

An inflammatory process involving the hair follicles, normally secondary to infection

Question 2

What are risk factors for folliculitis?

Answer 2

• Trauma including shaving/extraction
• Topical corticosteroids
• DM
• Immunosuppression
• High humidity
• Pre-existing dermatitis

Question 3

What organisms normally cause folliculitis?

Answer 3

• Staph aureus
• Pseudomonas (associated with hot tubs, pools, spas etc)
• Long term Abx use can lead to Klebsiella/Enterobacter infection

Question 4

How does folliculitis present?

Answer 4

• Rash/Red lumps on the skin
• Can be painless/irritating
• Small pustules in the middle of the rash may be present

Question 5

How is folliculitis managed?

Answer 5

Mild cases: Usually self-resolving, can give emollients
Moderate: Fusidic acid cream can be applied
Severe: Oral Abx may be needed