PSI Barbering Practice Exam

What term is most frequently applied to a folliculitis Barbae condition?

1. Carbuncle

2. Alopecia

3. Psoriasis

4. Dermatitis

The correct answer is: Carbuncle

Folliculitis Barbae refers specifically to inflammation of the hair follicles, commonly known as razor bumps or barber’s itch, which tends to occur in areas where hair is shaved. The term "carbuncle" refers to a cluster of interconnected furuncles (boils) that involve a deeper layer of the skin and can occur as a severe form of folliculitis. In cases of folliculitis Barbae, it is not uncommon for multiple hair follicles to become inflamed, which can encapsulate the condition under the broader category of a carbuncle when it presents with similar symptoms like swelling and pus formation. The other terms listed do not appropriately describe folliculitis Barbae. Alopecia refers to hair loss and does not involve inflammation or infection of hair follicles. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by rapid skin cell production, leading to red, scaly patches, which is distinct from the inflammation seen in folliculitis. Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation but is not specific to hair follicles or the specific condition of folliculitis Barbae. Thus, carbuncle is the most accurate term in this context as it relates closely to the inflammation of the hair follicles.