Folliculitis
Folliculitis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Folliculitis is an inflammation or infection of the hair follicle. It can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or contact with irritating substances. The symptoms of folliculitis include itching, redness, and small bumpy lesions called pustules. It is usually treated with antibiotics or with antifungal creams. In rare cases, the infection may spread to the skin's deeper layers, leading to complications such as cellulitis or permanent scarring.
What is Folliculitis?
Folliculitis is caused by an inflammation or infection of the hair follicle. It usually appears as small, red, itchy bumps that may be filled with pus. Folliculitis is usually caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, or fungal infections such as Candida albicans. Occasionally, it can also be caused by contact with an irritating substance such as fabric softeners or chlorine in a swimming pool.
Symptoms of Folliculitis
The symptoms of folliculitis include:
- Itching
- Redness
- Mild pain
- Small bumps, filled with pus
- Spreading of the infection to nearby areas of skin
Diagnosis of Folliculitis
Your doctor will diagnose folliculitis based on your symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, your doctor may take a sample of the infected skin to test in the laboratory for bacteria or fungus. This will help your doctor recommend the most effective treatment.
Treatment of Folliculitis
The treatment for folliculitis depends on the cause. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, or antifungal medications for fungal infections. For infections caused by irritating substances, topical steroids may be helpful. For severe cases, oral medications may be necessary.
Complications of Folliculitis
In some cases, folliculitis can spread to the deeper layers of the skin, leading to complications such as cellulitis or permanent scarring. If you notice any signs of spreading, such as swelling, pain, or redness, seek medical attention immediately.