Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp

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Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp
Synonyms	Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens, Hoffman disease
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Dermatology
Symptoms	Painful nodules, abscesses, scarring alopecia
Complications	Scarring, alopecia, secondary infection
Onset	Typically in young adulthood
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, possibly related to follicular occlusion
Risks	Male gender, African descent
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, skin biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Hidradenitis suppurativa, acne conglobata, folliculitis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Antibiotics, corticosteroids, isotretinoin, surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, often chronic and relapsing
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp (also known as Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens, Hoffmann disease, and Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens, Hoffman) is a rare, severe and chronic inflammatory condition of the scalp. It is characterized by painful, recurrent, suppurative and scarring inflammation of the hair follicles, often resulting in cicatricial alopecia.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of dissecting cellulitis of the scalp include:

• Painful nodules on the scalp
• Pus-filled abscesses
• Scarring and hair loss

Causes

The exact cause of dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is unknown. However, it is believed to be related to the blockage and subsequent rupture of hair follicles, which leads to an inflammatory response.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is primarily based on the clinical presentation. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment options for dissecting cellulitis of the scalp include:

• Antibiotics
• Corticosteroids
• Isotretinoin
• Surgical intervention

Prognosis

The prognosis for dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is variable. Some individuals may experience a complete resolution of symptoms with treatment, while others may have a chronic and relapsing course.

See also

• Folliculitis
• Alopecia
• Scalp conditions
• Dermatology

References

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  Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp in a 40-year-old male of African descent