Korean J Dermatol.  2006 Mar;44(3):384-386.

Gram-negative Folliculitis following Prolonged Use of Broad-spectrum Antibiotics

• Kim MG
• Rho NK

Abstract

Gram-negative folliculitis is an infection with Gram-negative bacteria that most often occurs as a complication of prolonged broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy in patients suffering from acne or rosacea. A 21-year-old male soldier with acne vulvaris had been treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics for two months because of severe pyoderma on the soles. While the plantar lesions improved significantly, prolonged use of the systemic antibiotics resulted in widespread follicular pustules on his face, scalp, and back of the neck. A skin biopsy showed features of superficial pustular folliculitis. Klebsiella species were identified from the pus culture. A diagnosis of gram-negative folliculitis was made. The lesions almost disappeared after 4 weeks of treatment with oral isotretinoin (0.5 mg/kg/day).

Keyword

Gram-negative folliculitis; Isotretinoin; Klebsiella

MeSH Terms

Acne Vulgaris
Anti-Bacterial Agents*
Biopsy
Diagnosis
Folliculitis*
Gram-Negative Bacteria
Humans
Isotretinoin
Klebsiella
Male
Military Personnel
Neck
Pyoderma
Rosacea
Scalp
Skin
Suppuration
Young Adult
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Isotretinoin