Successful treatment of refractory folliculitis decalvans with apremilast
Mirjam Fässler, Susanne Radonjic‐Hoesli, Laurence Feldmeyer, Valentina Imstepf, Lorenzo Pelloni, Nikhil Yawalkar, Pierre A. de Viragh
Abstract
Folliculitis decalvans is a rare neutrophilic inflammation of the scalp, characterized by painful follicular papules, pustules, crusting, and tufting of hairs. It results in the destruction of hair follicles and finally in cicatricial alopecia. The precise pathophysiology remains vague; inherited immune abnormalities and staphylococcal superantigens are presumed causes. The latter rationalizes the use of conventional antimicrobial treatments, such as prolonged antibiotics and dapsone, and of anti-inflammatory drugs as part of the therapeutic armamentarium.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineDermatologyFolliculitisDapsoneScalpScarring alopeciaApremilastRefractory (planetary science)AntibioticsImmunologyPsoriasisBiologyMicrobiologyPsoriatic arthritisAstrobiologyHair Growth and DisordersAutoimmune Bullous Skin DiseasesDermatological and Skeletal Disorders