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Folliculitis Decalvens
Overview
Folliculitis decalvans, also known as FDE, is a rare form of folliculitis that affects the scalp. It causes inflammation and scarring of the hair follicles, which can lead to permanent hair loss. Folliculitis decalvans typically affects men, and it is believed to be caused by an autoimmune reaction. Symptoms include bald patches on the scalp, redness and inflammation, pus-filled blisters, and scabs or crusts. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and can be confirmed with a biopsy of the scalp tissue. Treatment includes antibiotics to clear the infection, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and surgery to remove scarred tissue. While FDE is a chronic condition, symptoms can be managed with appropriate treatment.
What causes folliculitis decalvans?
Folliculitis decalvans (FDE) is a rare form of folliculitis that affects the scalp. It causes inflammation and scarring of the hair follicles, which can lead to permanent hair loss. Folliculitis decalvans typically affects men, and it is believed to be caused by an autoimmune reaction. It is not thought to be inherited.
Symptoms of folliculitis decalvans
Symptoms of FDE include bald patches on the scalp, redness and inflammation, pus-filled blisters, and scabs or crusts. The symptoms may come and go, and they may worsen with time.
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License: Mohammad2018, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Diagnosis of folliculitis decalvans
FDE is diagnosed based on symptoms and can be confirmed with a biopsy of the scalp tissue. A skin biopsy involves removing a small piece of skin for examination under a microscope.
Treatment of folliculitis decalvans
Treatment of FDE includes antibiotics to clear the infection, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and surgery to remove scarred tissue. While FDE is a chronic condition, symptoms can be managed with appropriate treatment.
Prognosis for folliculitis decalvans
The prognosis for FDE is generally good with appropriate treatment. However, FDE can be a chronic condition, and the hair loss may be permanent.
If you or someone you know has symptoms of FDE, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. FDE is a rare condition, but it can be serious. With appropriate treatment, most people with FDE can manage their symptoms and live normal, healthy lives.