ICD-11 classes
14 Diseases of the skin
Skin disorders involving specific cutaneous structures
Disorders of the epidermis and epidermal appendages
Disorders of hair
ED70 — Alopecia or hair loss
ED70.5 — Scarring alopecia
ED70.51 — Dissecting cellulitis

ICD-11 ED70.51 — Dissecting cellulitis

Dissecting cellulitis is a destructive inflammatory disorder of the scalp characterised by widespread perifolliculitis with dermal abscess and sinus tract formation and extensive scarring. It occurs predominantly in black males aged between 18 and 40 years. It may be associated with hidradenitis suppurativa and acne conglobata (follicular occlusion triad), and with pilonidal sinus. Painful swellings develop around the vertex of the scalp and coalesce to form irregular undulating oedematous ridges and furrows. With time an extensive network of sinuses discharging pus may develop. Progressive scarring and permanent alopecia ensue.

The diagnosis includes nothing.

The diagnosis excludes nothing.

It has no clarifying diagnoses.