Hot tub folliculitis

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Hair follicle anatomy

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Hot tub folliculitis

Folliculitis is a superficial infection of the hair follicle. Hot tub folliculitis is an infection that develops after exposure to certain forms of bacteria that reside in warm, wet environments such as hot tubs.

Most folliculitis is caused by the common organism Staphylococcus aureus. However, hot tub folliculitis is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Pseudomonas survives in hot tubs, especially hot tubs made of wood, unless the pH and chlorine content are strictly controlled.

Hot tub folliculitis becomes noticeable within several hours to 2 days of exposure. It first appears as itchy bumps, some of which may be filled with pus. It may then develop into dark red tender nodules. The rash may be more dense under swimsuit areas, where the material has held the contaminated water in contact with the skin for a longer period of time.

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