What should you know about MRSA scalp folliculitis?

Folliculitis is inflammation or infection around hair follicles. On the scalp it may appear as itchy or tender pimples, crusted spots, pustules, or clusters of skin bumps. MRSA cannot be confirmed by appearance alone; a clinician may take a swab from drainage or assess a recurrent pattern. Ingrown hairs, irritation from shaving, occlusive hair products, eczema, and other infections can resemble it, so the diagnosis matters before using an antibiotic.

Avoid scratching, picking, shaving over the affected area, or sharing brushes, hats, towels, pillowcases, and hair clippers. Wash hands after touching the scalp and launder items that contact drainage. Keep products simple while the skin is irritated, and use only prescribed topical or oral treatment. Topical antibiotic therapy may suit a limited problem, while broader antibiotic therapy for skin infection may be considered when lesions are numerous, recurrent, or associated with deeper inflammation. Do not use leftover medicine.

Arrange prompt care if bumps spread, become very painful, drain heavily, form a soft swollen area, or cause fever. Seek urgent assessment for facial swelling, severe headache, confusion, faintness, or rapidly worsening illness. Repeated episodes, hair loss over affected follicles, or failure to improve with the prescribed plan also warrant review.

Ask whether a culture is needed, whether close contacts or household items need specific precautions, how to apply treatment to hair-bearing skin, and when the scalp should be rechecked. Tell the clinician about recent antibiotics, allergies, and any recurrent pimples or drainage.