Quiz
Mixed diagnoses – 10 cases (8 of 11)

For each of the ten cases, study the image(s) and then answer the questions. You can click on the image to view a larger version if required.

Each case should take approximately five minutes to complete. There is a list of suggested further reading material at the end of the quiz.

When you finish the quiz, you can download a certificate.

Case 6

A 35-old woman complains of a slowly enlarging tender bald area on her scalp. A variety of topical steroids and ketoconazole shampoo have made little difference. On examination, she has an area of cicatricial alopecia, perifollicular inflammation and scaling and tufts of hair resembling a toothbrush. Abnormal findings are confined to the scalp.

What is the name for this scalp condition?

This is folliculitis decalvans, an uncommon scarring alopecia. When there are follicles containing multiple hairs looking like a toothbrush, the non-specific term "tufted folliculitis" is sometimes used.

What is the suggested cause?

The aetiology and pathogenesis of folliculitis decalvans is unknown. It has been suggested it is due to hypersensitivity to Staphylococcus aureus because this organism can usually be cultured from affected areas and antibiotics may reduce severity.

Suggest some treatments that may be useful.

The results of treatment may prove disappointing. The following are useful in some cases:

Antistaphylococcal therapy such as oral flucloxacillin, dicloxacillin, rifampicin, clindamycin
Anti-inflammatory antibiotics such as tetracycline, dapsone, cotrimoxazole
Oral retinoids
Laser epilation of involved hairs

Mark question

Previous Question Next Question

Quiz Mixed diagnoses – 10 cases (8 of 11)

Case 6

Sign up to the newsletter

Quiz
Mixed diagnoses – 10 cases (8 of 11)