Which of the following is a common cause of folliculitis in children?
Allergic reaction
Fungal infection
Bacterial infection
Viral infection
The Correct Answer is C
A. Allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis or urticaria, can cause redness, itching, or hives, but they do not specifically involve the hair follicles. Folliculitis is characterized by inflammation of the follicular unit, which allergic reactions alone do not produce. While irritation from an allergen can sometimes exacerbate follicular inflammation, it is not a primary cause of folliculitis.
B. Fungal infections, such as tinea capitis or tinea corporis, affect the skin and hair shafts and present with scaly, circular patches, hair loss, or mild erythema. These infections do not typically produce pustules or papules centered on hair follicles, which is the hallmark of folliculitis. While secondary fungal infection can rarely complicate folliculitis, it is not the common cause in children.
C. The most common cause of folliculitis in children is bacterial infection, especially by Staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria infect the hair follicles, leading to small, red pustules or papules, sometimes with surrounding erythema. Lesions are often tender or mildly itchy and may occur on the scalp, neck, arms, or legs. Folliculitis can arise from poor hygiene, occlusive clothing, friction, or minor trauma to the follicle. Treatment usually involves topical antibacterial agents, improved hygiene, and in more severe cases, oral antibiotics.
D. Viral infections, such as herpes simplex virus, may cause vesicular lesions, often grouped and painful, but they do not specifically target hair follicles. Viral infections rarely present as folliculitis in children, and the pattern of inflammation differs from bacterial folliculitis. Viral causes are not considered a common etiology.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Seborrheic dermatitis, especially in infants (cradle cap), is usually self-limiting and often resolves on its own with appropriate skin care and medicated shampoos. It can generally be cured or cleared rather than managed long-term.
B. Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin condition. It cannot be cured, but symptoms can be well controlled with strategies such as moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, avoiding triggers, and gentle skin care. Management focuses on preventing flare-ups and reducing itching and inflammation.
C. Diaper dermatitis is usually acute and treatable. With frequent diaper changes, barrier creams, and proper hygiene, it can be resolved quickly and does not require long-term management in most cases.
D. Contact dermatitis is caused by exposure to an irritant or allergen. It can often be cured or cleared by avoiding the trigger and using topical treatments, such as corticosteroids, rather than requiring lifelong management.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Burow’s solution is an astringent used for conditions such as weeping eczema or mild skin irritations, but it does not treat bacterial infections like cellulitis. It may provide soothing, but it is not an effective therapeutic intervention for cellulitis.
B. Cryotherapy involves freezing tissue and is used for lesions such as warts or certain skin growths, not for bacterial infections like cellulitis. It has no role in treating acute bacterial infections.
C. Topical antifungals are used for fungal infections such as tinea infections, not for bacterial cellulitis. Cellulitis requires systemic treatment targeting bacteria.
D. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species. The first-line treatment is typically oral antibiotics for mild to moderate infections. Severe cases may require IV antibiotics. Administering antibiotics addresses the underlying infection, reduces inflammation, and prevents the spread of infection.
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