User:Mr. Ibrahem/Folliculitis

Folliculitis is infection or inflammation of one or more hair follicles resulting in one or more small pustules or red bumps. These are generally tender and may be itchy. The condition may occur anywhere on hair covered skin. Complications include cellulitis or abscess.

It most commonly occurs due to a bacterial infection though less commonly may result from a fungal, viral, or noninfectious cause. Risk factors include diabetes, obesity, antibiotic use, poor immune function, shaving and certain medications like lithium. Diagnosis is generally based on symptoms and examination. A swab of a pustule for culture may identify the causative organism.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause but is often conservative. When due to Staph. aureus, while a few lesions may resolve on their own, larger numbers of lesions may be treated with antibiotic cream or pills. When due to hot tub use, the outbreak will generally resolve without treatment within 10 days. The condition is common.