Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp

Inflammation starts around scalp follicles and may form deep, painful lumps. Some nodules connect beneath the skin and release pus or blood-stained fluid. Repeated inflammation can damage follicles, leaving areas where hair becomes thin or does not regrow and causing raised or sunken scars. The appearance can resemble scalp infection, cysts, or other follicle disorders, so a clinician may need to inspect the scalp closely and sometimes test drainage.

Arrange review with a dermatologist rather than trying to drain lesions yourself. Wash gently, avoid picking, and protect leaking areas with clean dressings. Avoid close shaving, tight helmets, and products that sting during an active flare. Keep a simple record of new lumps, drainage, tenderness, and hair loss. Treatment aims to calm inflammation, manage discomfort, and prevent further follicle damage; the plan depends on severity and examination findings.

Get prompt medical advice for rapidly spreading redness, increasing swelling, severe scalp pain, or fever. Confusion, fainting, marked weakness, or feeling seriously unwell requires emergency help because these symptoms can accompany a severe infection or another urgent condition.

What findings support dissecting cellulitis rather than ordinary cellulitis? Is the hair loss likely to improve? Should drainage be sampled? Which scalp products, hairstyles, or grooming habits should I avoid while the inflammation is active?