Folikülite

Folikülite, or folliculitis, is an inflammation of one or more hair follicles. It is usually caused by infection or irritation and can affect any hair-bearing area, though it commonly involves the beard area, scalp, thighs, buttocks, and extremities. Folliculitis can be superficial, affecting the upper part of the follicle, or deeper, leading to larger boils known as furuncles or carbuncles.

Causes and risk factors include bacterial infection (most often Staphylococcus aureus), fungal organisms (such as Malassezia or dermatophytes), viral infections, or non-infectious irritants (shaving, friction, occlusive clothing, or hot-tub exposure). Risk factors include compromised skin integrity, diabetes, immune suppression, poor hygiene, and frequent contact with contaminated water or shared personal items.

Symptoms typically present as small red bumps around hair follicles, sometimes with white or yellow pus-filled centers. The area may be itchy, tender, or painful, and in recurrent cases, larger boils can form.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on appearance. Cultures or skin biopsies may be considered in persistent, recurrent, or resistant cases to identify the organism and guide treatment.

Treatment options vary by severity and cause:

- Mild superficial cases: regular cleansing, antiseptic washes, and topical antibiotics (for example, mupirocin or clindamycin).

- More extensive or persistent cases: oral antibiotics effective against Staphylococcus (such as cephalexin or dicloxacillin); doxycycline or linezolid may be used for MRSA risk.

- Fungal folliculitis: topical or oral antifungals.

- Hot-tub folliculitis: remove exposure; cases may be self-limiting or require antibiotics if symptomatic.

Prevention focuses on good hygiene, avoiding sharing towels or razors, proper shaving techniques, and keeping the skin dry and clean. Most cases resolve with appropriate treatment, but recurrent folliculitis may require longer or preventive strategies.