Hot tub folliculitis is a skin infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which enters through breaks in the skin or hair follicles. Symptoms include a red rash, itching, and pustules, and it is most common in areas covered by swimsuits. Risk factors include tight-fitting bathing suits, crowding, and prolonged exposure to contaminated water. The infection is self-limiting and usually resolves within 2 to 10 days, but acetic acid compresses can help relieve symptoms.
Hot tub folliculitis or pseudomonas folliculitis is a skin infection that usually follows exposure to water contaminated with the organism Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Also called hot hand-foot syndrome, it affects hair follicles, leading to an inflamed condition called folliculitis. Pseudomonas entry can occur through breaks in the skin, such as those caused by waxing, depilatory creams, and rigorous scrubbing, or through hair follicles. This skin infection got its name from the fact that hot water increases the risk of contracting it. Although it may resolve on its own within 2 to 10 days, symptomatic treatment with acetic acid tablets may be necessary for itching.
This skin condition manifests as an erythematous or reddish rash with an itchy or itchy quality. Appearing initially as macules or flat lesions less than 0.4 inch (1 cm) in diameter, they can progress to papules, which are elevated lesions less than 0.4 inch (1 cm) in diameter, and pustules, which are papular lesions with pus. Rashes are especially abundant in intertriginous areas or skin folds, such as those found in the armpit and groin. They are also abundant in areas of skin covered by swimsuits.
The top four risk factors for hot tub folliculitis include tight-fitting bathing suits, crowding, frequent and prolonged exposure to contaminated water, and youth. Several environmental conditions are known to be present during hot tub folliculitis outbreaks. These include prolonged exposure to water, too many bathers in a bathing area and inadequate sanitation. It has also been observed that many cases occur when inflatable pool toys, waterslides and other water attractions are present.
A history of hot tub exposure or other related exposure is an important clue to the diagnosis of hot tub folliculitis. To confirm the diagnosis, samples are taken from a pustule or from suspected contaminated water. These samples are subjected to Gram staining and culture. Once they test positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a causal relationship is established.
Hot tub folliculitis is considered a self-limiting disease because no treatment is needed to resolve it. The rash is expected to disappear 2 to 10 days after onset, and the causative organism is not susceptible to the usual antibiotics, making taking these drugs ineffective and cost-inefficient. For people seeking relief from symptoms, a 5% acetic acid compress can be used 2 to 4 times a day, for 20 minutes each time. This might ease the discomfort.
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