Pustulose

Pustulose is a term used in medicine and dermatology to describe a condition characterized by the presence of pustules. A pustule is a small, circumscribed, pus-filled lesion on the skin. These lesions are typically elevated and can vary in size from a few millimeters to over a centimeter. The pus within a pustule is usually a mixture of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and cellular debris.

Pustulose conditions can arise from a variety of causes. Infections are a common culprit, particularly bacterial infections like acne vulgaris, folliculitis, or impetigo. In these cases, bacteria colonize hair follicles or pores, leading to inflammation and the formation of pus. Fungal infections can also manifest as pustules.

Non-infectious causes of pustulose exist as well. Certain inflammatory conditions, such as pustular psoriasis, a severe form of psoriasis, present with widespread pustules. Other dermatological conditions, like pustular drug eruptions or sterile pustulosis, can also result in the development of pustules without the presence of an active infection.

The appearance of pustules can range from white or yellow to sometimes reddish due to underlying inflammation. They may be painful or itchy, and their rupture can lead to crusting and potential scarring depending on the underlying cause and individual healing processes. Diagnosis of the specific cause of pustulose often involves a physical examination, patient history, and sometimes laboratory tests such as a bacterial culture. Treatment varies widely depending on the etiology, ranging from topical antibiotics and antifungals to systemic medications for inflammatory conditions.