Folliculitis decalvans is a condition where hair follicles become inflamed and scarred, resulting in hair loss. The spelling of this medical term can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, folliculitis, is pronounced /fəˌlɪk.jʊˈlaɪ.tɪs/ with the stress on the second syllable. The second word, decalvans, is pronounced /diːˈkæl.vənz/, with the stress on the first syllable. The term is often abbreviated as FD, making it easier for doctors and patients to discuss this condition.
Folliculitis decalvans is a chronic inflammatory condition of the hair follicles, primarily affecting the scalp. It is characterized by the presence of pustules, crusts, and abscesses over the affected areas along with progressive hair loss.
This condition is believed to be a result of an abnormal immune response to a bacterial infection, such as Staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria colonize the hair follicles, leading to inflammation and subsequent destruction of the follicles. It is categorized as a type of primary cicatricial alopecia, which refers to hair loss associated with the destruction of hair follicles.
The symptoms of folliculitis decalvans may include redness, tenderness, and discomfort in the affected areas. As the condition progresses, the hair follicles become destroyed, leading to irreversible hair loss. The affected areas may also exhibit scarring and permanent bald patches.
Treatment for folliculitis decalvans primarily focuses on controlling the inflammation and managing the bacterial infection. This often involves the use of topical or oral antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and promote healing. In severe cases where extensive scarring has occurred, hair transplantation may be considered as a treatment option.
However, it is important to note that folliculitis decalvans is a chronic condition that may require long-term management. Regular follow-ups with a dermatologist are necessary to monitor the progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Alopecia follicularis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "folliculitis decalvans" has its roots in Latin and Greek.
The word "folliculitis" is derived from the Latin word "folliculus", meaning "small bag" or "sack", and the Greek word "itis", meaning "inflammation". Therefore, "folliculitis" refers to the inflammation of hair follicles.
The term "decalvans" comes from the Latin word "de", which means "away" or "off", and "calvus", meaning "bald". Hence, "decalvans" refers to the condition of becoming bald or developing bald patches.
In combination, "folliculitis decalvans" signifies an inflammatory condition that leads to hair follicle damage and baldness.