Folliculitis
Folliculitis is inflammation of hair follicles presenting as small red bumps or pustules. It can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or physical irritation.
Symptoms
Small red bumps or white-tipped pustules centered on hair follicles -- beard area, thighs, buttocks, and chest. Deep folliculitis can progress to boils.
Causes and risk
Staphylococcus aureus is most common. Hot tubs (Pseudomonas), shaving, tight clothing, and immunosuppression are risk factors. Pityrosporum folliculitis requires antifungal treatment.
How it is evaluated
Diagnosis is clinical. Bacterial or fungal cultures guide treatment for recurrent cases. We distinguish bacterial from pityrosporum folliculitis.
Treatment
Mild cases resolve with warm compresses and topical mupirocin. Oral antibiotics treat widespread cases. Pityrosporum folliculitis needs antifungals. Our Chicago team identifies the specific cause.