The experience of follicular occlusion syndrome treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors

Abstract

Follicular occlusion syndrome consists of several conditions that share similar pathophysiology involving infundibular follicular occlusion and secondary inflammatory cascade. This syndrome includes hidradenitis suppurativa, dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, acne conglobata and pilonidal sinus. They can develop independently or as a component of a syndrome in different combinations.
 We are the first to present a clinical case of follicular occlusion tetrad and intermediate therapy outcome with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors. We also provide a full and updated review of the literature on the etiology and pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of similar syndromic conditions.
 Currently, there is no reliable algorithm of treatment for patients with follicular occlusion syndrome, which underlines the importance of further studies. The presented clinical case confirms the need for timely administration of genetically-engineered biological drugs to patients with diseases of the follicular occlusion group (before sinus tract formation).