The use of systemic corticosteroids in debilitating sycosis barbae, sycosis barbae fulminans

Abstract

Sycosis barbae is a rare and severe form of folliculitis involving the complete hair shaft that can lead to scarring as well as permanent hair loss. It typically presents as a subacute or chronic painful, papulopustular eruption in shaved areas, most commonly affecting the beard area, though it may occur on other hair-bearing sites. We report a case of debilitating sycosis barbae requiring inpatient admission, broad spectrum antibiotics, and systemic corticosteroids complicated by the development of cicatricial alopecia and extensive scarring causing limited mobility.