Follicular Occlusion Syndrome: Diagnosis, Management, and Emerging Insights

Authors

Henry Lim, HCA HealthcareFollow
Reem Ayoub, UNTHSC
Rafael do Valle, UNTHSC
Marshall Hall, HCA HealthcareFollow
Michael Carletti
Stephen Weis, UNTHSCFollow

Files

Division

North Texas

Hospital

Medical City Fort Worth

Specialty

Dermatology

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

2025

Keywords

follicular occlusion syndrome, FOS, follicular hyperkeratinization

Disciplines

Dermatology | Medicine and Health Sciences | Skin and Connective Tissue Diseases

Abstract

Follicular Occlusion Syndromes (FOS) are rare chronic relapsing skin disorders characterized by abnormal follicular hyperkeratinization, plugging, and inflammation. FOS are more commonly discussed as a ‘triad’ or ‘tetrad’ based on the patient’s clinical presentation. The triad includes hidradenitis suppurativa, acne conglobata, and dissecting cellulitis of the scalp. The tetrad in addition to the triad includes a history of pilonidal cysts. These disorders have a considerably negative effect on quality of life due to chronic pain, psychological distress, and body image concerns. Delayed or misdiagnosis can exacerbate patient outcomes, heightening the importance of timely identification and multidisciplinary treatment. We present two previously unrecognized cases of FOS to raise awareness to improve management.

Original Publisher

HCA Healthcare Graduate Medical Education

Recommended Citation

Lim, Henry; Ayoub, Reem; do Valle, Rafael; Hall, Marshall; Carletti, Michael; and Weis, Stephen, "Follicular Occlusion Syndrome: Diagnosis, Management, and Emerging Insights" (2025). North Texas Research Forum 2025. 109.
https://scholarlycommons.hcahealthcare.com/northtexas2025/109