Recurrent Pseudomonas folliculitis.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa has attracted the attention of the dermatologic literature through repeatedly reported outbreaks of folliculitis occurring in small epidemics related to contaminated whirlpools, hot tubs, and swimming pools. In contrast, sporadic cases without these recreational exposures may present a diagnostic challenge. Two sisters, age 8 and 4 years, had sporadic Pseudomonas folliculitis. It is important to recognize the organism as the cause of this recurrent, papulopustular, follicular eruption on the trunk and gluteal regions, also called nonrecreational Pseudomonas folliculitis, to avoid misdiagnosis and mismanagment. Inadvertent therapy with steroids may result in rapid spread of the lesions. Unless a meticulous investigation of contaminant sources in the environment leads to the detection of the vehicle of infection, the dermatitis tends to recur and become chronic.