Page 23 - LECTURE NOTES

3.6.2. Folliculitis

It is an infection of the hair follicles. It occurs on hair bearing areas of the skin.
Application of greasy substance such as Vaseline is a predisposition. The most

common etiologic agent is staphylococcus aureus. However, fungi and virus can also
cause it.

A furuncle is an acute, deep-seated, red, hot, tender nodule or abscess that evolves

around the hair follicle and is caused by staphylococcus aureus.

A carbuncle is a deeper infection comprised of interconnecting abscesses usually
arising in several adjacent hair follicles.

Furuncle and carbuncle are common in obese, diabetic patients and
immunosuppressive conditions.

Management of folliculitis

Avoid greasy applications on the skin.

Mupiricine topically can be used.
Systemic antibiotics: - cloxacillin or erythromycin is choices of treatment.

For deep abscesses (furuncle and carbuncle) incision and drainage is mandatory.

3.6.3. Cellulitis and Erysipelas

Cellulitis is bacterial infection and inflammation of loose connective tissue (dermis

subcutaneous tissue)
Erysipelas is a bacterial infection of the dermis and upper subcutaneous tissue;

characterized by a well-defined, raised edge reflecting the more superficial (dermal)

involvement

Etiology

The most common etiologic agent is group A β hemolytic streptococcus. However,

Staphylococcus aureus can also cause cellulites. In young children, Hemophilus

influenza type B should be considered as a possible etiology for cellulites especially of
the face (facial cellulitis).

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