What is folliculitis?
Folliculitis is the inflammation of hair follicles due to an infection, injury, or irritation. It is characterized by tender, swollen areas that form around hair follicles, often on the neck, breasts, buttocks, and face.
What are the symptoms of folliculitis?
The following are the most common symptoms of folliculitis; each child may experience symptoms differently.
Symptoms for folliculitis may include:
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Pus in the hair follicle
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Irritated and red follicles
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Damaged hair
These symptoms may resemble other skin conditions. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
How is folliculitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis of folliculitis is made by your child's physician after a thorough medical history and physical examination. After examining the lesions, your child's physician may culture the wounds (obtain a sample of the drainage of the wound, allow it to grow in the laboratory, and identify specific bacteria) to help verify the diagnosis and to help in selecting the best treatment.
Treatment for folliculitis
Specific treatment for folliculitis will be determined by your child's physician based on:
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Your child's age, overall health, and medical history
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Extent of the condition
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Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
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Expectations for the course of the condition
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Your opinion or preference
Treatment may include:
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Topical antibiotics
- Oral or intravenous (IV) antibiotics (to treat the infection)
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 314.454.5437 or 800.678.5437 or email us.
