NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamHair Care ServicesMedium
A barber is preparing a client for a haircut. Upon scalp analysis, the barber observes small, red, inflamed pustules and papules around the hair follicles, particularly on the nape of the neck and around the hairline. The client reports mild itching and tenderness. What condition does this most accurately describe?
- APsoriasis
- BTinea capitis
- CPediculosis capitis
- DFolliculitis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Folliculitis
Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by bacterial or fungal infection, presenting as small, red, inflamed pustules and papules around the hair follicles. The description of 'pustules and papules around the hair follicles' is characteristic.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Psoriasis presents as thick, silvery scales on red patches, not pustules around follicles.
- B. Tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp) presents as patchy hair loss, scaling, and sometimes red spots, but not typically pustules and papules directly around follicles.
- C. Pediculosis capitis (head lice) involves nits and lice, not pustules and papules.
Folliculitis
An inflammation of the hair follicles, usually caused by bacterial or fungal infection, presenting as small, red, inflamed bumps (pustules or papules) around the hair follicles.
- Often appears on the scalp, neck, and beard area.
- Can be caused by bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) or fungi.
- May be itchy or tender.
Memory trick: Folliculitis: red bumps 'round the follicles.