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PrintEosinophilic pustular folliculitis (EPF) is a skin disorder characterized by recurring itchy, red or skin-colored bumps and pustules (bumps containing pus). The condition is named after the fact that skin biopsies of this disorder find eosinophils (a type of immune cell) around hair follicles. The papules mostly appear on the face, scalp, neck and trunk and may persist for weeks or months. EPF affects males more than females.There are several variants of EPF includingclassic eosinophilic pustular folliculitis (mainly occurring in adults in Japan); HIV-associated EPF, also referred to as immunosuppression-associated EPF; and infantile EPF (with onset from birth or within the first year of life). Whether these are distinct disorders rather than variants of one disorder is controversial, partly because the underlying cause of EFP is not known.Several treatments have been described with variable results, including various oral or topical medications and phototherapy. In patients with HIV-associated disease, antiretroviral therapy tends to greatly diminish symptoms or even eliminate the condition.
The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
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