Dissecting Cellulitis: Early Features

Early Stages of DSC

Dissecting Cellulitis (DSC) is a relatively rare scarring alopecia. Men are affected much more than women and affected patients are frequently young males in their 20s.

The condition beings with discharge of pus and sometimes blood from the scalp. It can also be quite itchy. The beard, underarm (axilla) and groin can be affected with similar discharge. A key feature of diagnosis is the presence of sinus tracts or "tunnels" underneath the skin. Small thin vellus hairs are also seen in the affect area.

The primary treatment of DSC is isotretinoin although antibiotics, zinc, dapsone, colchicine, and TNF inhibitors can be used.