Spectrum: Local Antimicrobial Stewardship, for Markham Stouffville Hospital

Folliculitis

Characteristics

  • Any hair-bearing area

  • Painful pustules and follicular erythematous papules

  • Pruritus

Common Pathogens

Staphyloccocus aureus

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Empiric Regimen of Choice

Most cases respond to topical therapy

Warm compresses

  • 1 tsp salt/1 cup warm water

PLUS

Mupirocin 2% ointment/cream topically BID

CONSIDER ADDING

Benzoyl peroxide or chlorhexidine wash DAILY-BID

Alternative Treatment

If topical therapy ineffective or extensive or in difficult to treat location use oral therapy.

Gram-Positive Folliculitis

Gram-Negative Folliculitis

  • Example: Hot Tub Folliculitis

  • Gram-negative folliculitis due to Pseudomonas is often self-limiting and resolves within 7 to 10 days with good skin hygiene.

  • Lesions over 2 cm in size may require incision/drainage for adequate treatment