Folliculitis (hair follicle infection)

Description An infection of the...

Description

An infection of the hair follicles. The most common bacteria causing this disorder is Staphylococcus aureus although other bacteria such as Streptococcus can be involved. The disorder can occur from irritation to the skin such as shaving (Barber's itch) or from exposure to bacteria in a hot tub (hot tub folliculitis). Most infections are minor and some will resolve on their own without specific treatment. At times the infection can spread and involve the surrounding skin (cellulitis). Typically the infection causes pain and itching and small white pimples are seen at the base of the hair follicle. The disease is more common in patients with a weakened immune system. Other causes include: obesity, diabetes, acne, or topical steroid use.

Symptoms

Painful skin, skin redness, small pimples at the base of the hair follicle, red bumps around the hair follicles, increased warmth of the involved skin, itchy skin, skin swelling.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. The diagnosis is made by inspecting the skin. At times a wound culture will be done to identify the bacteria.

Tests:
Wound culture

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Dermatology, Telemedicine Dermatology

Treatment

If the provider thinks the infection is caused by Staphylococcus then a topical antibiotic (Bactroban/mupirocin) or oral antibiotic will be prescribed. The most common oral antibiotics include cephalexin (Keflex), levofloxacin (Levaquin), clindamycin (Cleocin), or erythromycin (Ery-Tab). If the provider is concerned about MRSA (methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus) sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra) or linezolid (Zyvox) may be prescribed. Hot tub folliculitis requires an antibiotic to kill the bacteria Pseudomonas including levofloxacin (Levaquin) or ciprofloxacin (Cipro).