Three failed surgeries and numerous medical treatments, including steroid injections, have complicated Anwar’s case. The mass growing on Anwar’s scalp is composed of two distinct conditions, Folliculitis Decalvans and Acne Keloidalis Nuchae. “Part of what we are seeing in Anwar today is a combination of the disease itself, and the scarring resulting from the previous surgeries,” Dr. Umar explains.
The Importance of Connection: Dr. Umar Meets Anwar’s Father
Dr. Sanusi Umar believes in the importance of connection, both with the patient, and with family members. Anwar is lucky to have a strong network of social support, and this time he is bringing his father with him to meet Dr. Umar. “It’s always good to connect with family members or loved ones, to know how this condition affects them as well,” Dr. Umar says.
Dr. Umar Considers the An Important First Step: the Biopsy
Factors and How They Might Affect Surgery
Dr. Umar knows that for the surgery to be successful, the entire mass must be removed. To accomplish this, he needs to determine where the diseased tissue ends, and the healthy tissue begins. He decides on an important diagnostic tool called a biopsy. A small tissue sample of Anwar’s scalp will be removed and examined under a microscope for cellular changes. Dr. Umar expects the biopsy to show a large amount of white blood cells known as lymphocytes, a key marker for inflammation, around the hair follicles.
In addition to being a world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Umar is also a born teacher, and he wants those around him to understand about scalp conditions. “So with this I’m able to direct where the biopsy will come from,” Dr. Umar explains to his medical assistant, as he photographs an area on Anwar’s scalp. “Around the hair follicles, the skin in there indicates…we expect the histology to find a small swarm of lymphocytes attacking the hair follicle. And this area looks normal when you look at it. The whole scalp is like that.”
Watch Anwar’s Story
🎥 Watch the fourth chapter of Anwar’s transformation here:
• Also available on Instagram Reels and TikTok
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you know is suffering from Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN), don’t wait. Early intervention and expert care can change lives.
Fill out the free online consultation form to have your case personally reviewed by Dr. Sanusi Umar.
Individual results may vary. This story reflects one patient’s personal experience with Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN) and treatment with Dr. Umar. Consult with a qualified physician for personalized advice.
