The appearance of pink bumps on the body may indicate folliculitis. It is recommended to consult a doctor for a detailed examination before initiating any treatment with medication. Antibiotics may be prescribed as appropriate for folliculitis. Topical applications include 1% neomycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid ointment, or 2% iodine tincture. Ultraviolet radiation may also be tried. For patients with recurrent episodes, autologous vaccine or polyvalent Staphylococcus vaccine may be considered.
Folliculitis is a suppurative inflammation caused by bacterial infection of the entire hair follicle. It begins as red papules that gradually evolve into pustular papules, which are isolated and scattered, causing mild pain. In adults, it mainly occurs in hairy areas, while in children, it commonly affects the head. The rash may sometimes fuse together, leaving small patches of alopecia after healing. The main pathogenic bacteria of folliculitis are Staphylococcus, sometimes with Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated. It is mostly caused by infection with Staphylococcus aureus. Drinking alcohol and eating spicy foods are common precipitating factors. Poor hygiene, scratching, and low body resistance may also contribute to the development of the disease. Initially, it presents as red, solid papules consistent with the hair follicle opening or starts as follicular pustules, which rapidly evolve into pustular papules with hairs penetrating the center. There is surrounding erythema and inflammation, followed by drying and scabbing. The scabs usually fall off after about a week, but there may be recurrent episodes that do not resolve for years. In some cases, the infection may progress to form deeper abscesses or carbuncles, which generally do not leave scars. The rash consists of numerous, isolated, and scattered papules, causing mild pain. In adults, it mainly occurs in hairy areas, while in children, it commonly affects the head. The rash may sometimes fuse together, leaving small patches of alopecia after healing.
