Erosive Pustular Dermatosis of the Scalp Following Hair Transplantation: A Rare Complication

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) is a rare inflammatory condition characterized by sterile pustules, crusts, and skin atrophy, leading to scarring alopecia. While typically affecting the elderly, this report discusses a rare instance in a 31-year-old male who developed EPDS following follicular unit extraction (FUE) for androgenetic alopecia. The diagnosis was confirmed through clinical, dermoscopic, and histopathological examination. Initial treatment with topical steroids showed temporary improvement, but the condition relapsed upon tapering. High-potency topical corticosteroids were ultimately effective. This case underscores the importance of early recognition of EPDS, highlighting the value of clinical, trichoscopic, and histopathologic examination in improving patient outcomes. It also expands the understanding of EPDS by suggesting that surgical trauma may trigger pathergy, potentially initiating the condition in younger individuals without typical risk factors. Given the increasing popularity of hair transplantation, clinicians must remain vigilant about rare complications like EPDS to ensure prompt diagnosis and prevent irreversible alopecia.