Bioscientia Medicina : Journal of Biomedicine and Translational Research
Vol. 10 No. 4 (2026): Bioscientia Medicina: Journal of Biomedicine & Translational Research

Eosinophilic Pustular Folliculitis Mimicking Varicella: A Diagnostic Challenge in an Adolescent Patient

Farisa Mutahallia (Unknown)
Oktavriana, Triasari (Unknown)
Novan Adi Setyawan (Unknown)
Aizawanda Rizqi Eiffellia (Unknown)
Arista Kautsar Rahman (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
11 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis (EPF), or Ofuji disease, is a rare non-infectious inflammatory dermatosis typically affecting middle-aged adults. Its clinical resemblance to infectious exanthems often leads to significant diagnostic delays, particularly in atypical age groups. Case presentation: A 15-year-old male presented with a one-month history of progressive erythematous papules, pustules, and crusted erosions distributed across the face, trunk, and extremities. The patient was initially misdiagnosed with varicella and treated with acyclovir without clinical response. Physical examination and Gram staining ruled out primary bacterial infections. Laboratory investigations revealed significant peripheral eosinophilia (12.3%). A 5-mm punch biopsy confirmed the diagnosis, showing dense eosinophilic and neutrophilic infiltration of the hair follicles and peri-adnexal structures. Management with systemic and topical corticosteroids led to rapid resolution of lesions and normalization of eosinophil levels. Conclusion: This case underscores the necessity of considering EPF in the differential diagnosis of persistent papulopustular eruptions in adolescents. Early histopathological intervention is critical to prevent unnecessary antimicrobial therapy and ensure targeted anti-inflammatory treatment.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

bsm

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Immunology & microbiology Medicine & Pharmacology Neuroscience

Description

This journal welcomes the submission of articles that offering a sensible transfer of basic research to applied clinical medicine. BioScientia Medicina covers the latest developments in various fields of biomedicine with special attention to : 1.Rhemumatology 2.Molecular aspect of Indonesia ...