| If an individual fails to recover within the expected maximum duration period, the reader may wish to consider the following questions to better understand the specifics of an individual's medical case. Regarding diagnosis:
- Does the individual have a recent history of hot tub use?
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Does the individual regularly shave and/or wax?
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Are the skin symptoms isolated to the trunk and extremities?
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Has the individual been on long-term antibiotic use for acne?
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Have cultures of the pus been performed?
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Has the individual been tested to determine if they are a carrier of Staphylococcus aureus?
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Has a skin biopsy been performed?
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Has blood work been done or other tests performed to diagnose a potential underlying condition (i.e., immune suppression)?
Regarding treatment:
- Is the appropriate antibiotic being used for the specific type of bacteria?
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Is the individual complying with treatment recommendations?
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Does the folliculitis recur in the shaved areas of skin? Has the individual been instructed to use an electric razor?
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Is the individual being treated with oral antibiotics?
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If obese, has the individual been consulted about diet?
Regarding prognosis:
- Have the symptoms persisted despite treatment?
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Was a repeat culture and sensitivity done to rule out secondary infection or a antibiotic resistant bacteria?
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Have appropriate adjustments in antibiotic therapy been made?
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Does the individual have any underlying conditions such as diabetes, acne vulgaris, AIDS, organ transplantation, cancer, obesity, and diseases causing impaired circulation (e.g., arteriosclerosis), that may impact recovery and prognosis?
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Has the individual experienced any complications (boils, granulomas, ulcerations, subcutaneous abscesses, chronicity, neurodermatitis, or scarring) that may impact recovery and prognosis?
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Source: Medical Disability Advisor