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Folliculitis in All Ages
See also in: Anogenital,Hair and Scalp
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Folliculitis in All Ages

See also in: Anogenital,Hair and Scalp
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Folliculitis occurs due to inflammation of the superficial hair follicle, resulting in follicularly centered papules and pustules that may later form crusts. The etiology of folliculitis can be variable, with bacterial, fungal, viral, parasitic, and noninfectious causes reported. Predisposing factors include nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus, occlusion, maceration, hyperhydration, complicating pruritic skin diseases, vigorous application of topical medications, shaving, exposure to oils and certain chemicals, and exposure to heated or contaminated water. Several anatomic areas may be involved, including the face, scalp, trunk, extremities, genital region, and occluded areas such as the axillae. 

Codes

ICD10CM:
L73.9 – Follicular disorder, unspecified

SNOMEDCT:
13600006 – Folliculitis

References

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Last Updated:09/15/2025
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Patient Information for Folliculitis in All Ages
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Folliculitis in All Ages
See also in: Anogenital,Hair and Scalp
A medical illustration showing key findings of Folliculitis
Clinical image of Folliculitis - imageId=320768. Click to open in gallery.  caption: 'A close-up of follicularly based papules and a pustule.'
A close-up of follicularly based papules and a pustule.
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