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Acne Keloidalis Nuchae: Symptoms, Treatments & More

About

A type of folliculitis that occurs due to inflammation of the hair follicles.
Mostly affects young adult men of African, Latino, or Asiatic origin.

Affects men with curly and stiff hair
Self-diagnosis possible
Important to get treated
Treatment results take time

The cause of AKN is still a subject of research. It leads to painful, inflamed scars and bumps on the back of the neck. It is not actually a type of acne—it starts with small itchy bumps along the hairline on the back of the neck. With time, hair strands around the scars start falling. The bumps start growing to resemble keloids.

Ages affected - men in their puberty - rarely seen in middle-aged men

Symptoms

Self-diagnosable
The appearance of pus-filled bumps that are red in color on the back of the neck or lower scalp. These bumps develop into scars. Lack of treatment can cause these scars to become keloids.

People may experience

Hair fall around the region with the bumps
Painful and pus-filled bumps
Foul-smelling discharge from these bumps, rarely and in extreme conditions

Treatment

Self-care
Keep the area clean and wash with a non-irritating cleanser. Avoid scrubbing. Do not wear headgears that rub against the back of the neck like collared shirts and helmets. Avoid shaving the back of the neck.

Medications:
Over-the-counter cortisone cream, topical steroids, oral antibiotics, or steroid injections.

Surgery:
The lesions can be removed with the help of surgery.
Lack of treatment can lead to the formation of scars and even, infection.
Talk to a mfine specialist today to learn more about the treatment and management plan.