Pseudofolliculitis Barbae is a condition that is similar to Acne Keloidalis Nuchae. However patients should realize that the two issues are not the same. They differ in terms of: location on the body, causes, symptoms, and treatment
Acne Keloidalis Nuchae shares similar characteristics with Pseudofolliculitis Barbae. However the two conditions are not the same. If you are wondering how Acne Keloidalis Nuchae is different from Pseudofolliculitis Barbae, here are several areas to look at.
Location on the Body
Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (also known as: Dermatitis Papillaris Capillitii) manifests on the back of the head near the neck area.
Pseudofolliculitis barbae occurs on the face and other areas of the body that are shaved.
Causes: Acne Keloidalis Nuchae and Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
The exact causes of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae are not quite clear. Some possibilities include:
* High concentration of mast cells in the upper neck/rear scalp region
* Autoimmune response to the hair follicle
* Bacteria
* Use of Cyclosporine
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae is the result of irritation caused by shaving. Hair shafts can re-enter the skin causing an inflammatory reaction. There are two patterns of ingrown hairs:
1. Transfollicular
2. Extrafollicular
Acne Keloidalis Nuchae can occur from either of these patterns.
Transfollicular hairs have never actually left the follicle. These shafts become a source of irritation, causing fluid to build up. This fluid can precipitate the growth of bacteria.
Extrafollicular hairs have exited the follicle, but then grow back into the skin.
Symptoms of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae and Pseudfolliculitis Barbae
Pseudofolliculitis barbae manifests as red, itchy bumps on the skin. Over time, keloid scars can develop.
Acne Keloidalis Nuchae also starts out as itchy bumps. In more advanced stages, it will eventuate into large keloid-like masses.
Treatment
Early treatment of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae can be done with antibiotics and cortisone injections. Later, it becomes necessary to excise the enlarged lesion through surgery.
With Pseudofolliculitis Barbae, the cure is quite simple. This is simply a matter of letting the hair grow.
When Pseudofolliculitis Barbae is on the Back of the Neck
When Pseudofolliculitis Barbae is localized on the back of the neck, it is referred to as Pseudofolliculitis Nuchae. This can develop into Acne Keloidalis Nuchae if it is not treated immediately.
The reason that symptoms become exacerbated on the back of the neck may be due to the high concentration of mast cells in this area. These cells are specialized to attack invaders.
