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How to Get Rid of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae for Good

Updated on March 31, 2013

What is Acne Keloidalis Nuchae?

No matter how many special shampoos, antibiotics, and corticosteroid injections you’ve tried, it seems impossible to get rid of acne keloidalis nuchae for good. This stubborn relative of folliculitis predominantly affects black men just above the nape of the neck. Men of Asian and Latin descent also tend to be more susceptible to AKN. The condition is defined by the pustules and papules that become large in size as they become increasingly infected and inflamed. In its most advanced stages, the infection turns into tumescent plaques that are itchy and filled with pus. Furthermore, the development of AKN disrupts the cycle of the affected hair follicles, only allowing tufted growth in the areas between the plaques.

Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Treatments that May Not Work

The origin of the condition is not entirely known, so the cause cannot be treated. Only the symptoms can be treated. This makes it more difficult to permanently get rid of acne keloidalis nuchae. At the start of AKN, the appearance resembles razor bumps on the back of the head. An afflicted person might not realize at the time how severe the condition can become.

Assessment from a dermatologist is the place to start whenever clusters of small bumps begin to form on the lower, rear scalp. The doctor will first prescribe the aforementioned antibiotics, shampoos, and corticosteroids, progressing to cryotherapy and radiation therapy if the infection is resistant. Sometimes, the bumps will subside and then return later.

Once the AKN has progressed to advanced stages, many will find that these treatments are futile. The condition persists and is not only uncomfortable, but also cosmetically apparent and embarrassing.

How to Get Rid of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Permanently

The only way to get rid of acne keloidalis nuchae once it has evolved into keloid-like masses is to have it surgically removed. Through a number of possible excision methods, a skilled dermatologist will remove the infected follicles and the tissue forming the plaques. The doctor must make sure to get deep enough that there is no infection left behind, lest the problem return.

Surgical wound closure options range from skin grafting to primary closure to advanced trychophytic closure. The last of these produces the best aesthetic outcome with the least obvious scarring. Even if your AKN is in the severe stages, it’s not too late to get rid of it for good. Through surgical excision, you will likely be able to wear your hair short again without the humiliation of a scalp deformity.

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