By the time John Picone got to see Dr. Sanusi Umar, John had been to almost every doctor that treated skin issues that were similar to what John was experiencing. Each one gave John different creams, different pills, different ways to try to reduce the amount of swelling of the inflamed scalp cysts, or help prevent infections.
Many believed it was a simple scalp infection, ingrown hairs, or even scalp cysts, but nothing worked. John’s problem only got worse over time. John’s problem only got worse over time because the underlying issue was a combination of folliculitis keloidalis nuchae and chronic abscessing scalp inflammation.
These two scalp conditions are known for painful bumps on the back of the head and recurrent boils.
The Most Disturbing Symptoms
What John said was the worst part about having this problem was the huge lump on the back of his head. He knew that it brought immediate attention to him. Every time John laid down, the pressure of the lump would cause it to “pop” or “drain”, and then leave John with more frustration and embarrassment.
In addition to the big lump, John had hundreds of painful boil-like bumps all over his scalp. They would become swollen, they would open up (rupture), and then fill again. John was unable to get out of this cycle.
With each new boil forming, John became more uncomfortable, more drained, and less comfortable being around other people. Eventually, he stopped going to places he used to enjoy because none of the treatments helped calm the chronic inflammation damaging his scalp.
Why Treatment Became a Turning Point
Things changed when John went to see Dr. Umar. Dr. Umar carefully looked at John’s scalp and told him exactly what two conditions were causing the swelling, the draining, and the structural problems John’s scalp had developed.
For the first time, John understood why his symptoms had continued and why all previous treatments had failed. Dr. Umar then laid out a specific treatment plan aligned with credible studies designed for John’s disease, one that targeted the root cause of the painful scalp bumps, the drainage, and the changes in his scalp structure.
Getting a clear understanding of how John’s disease could be treated, was much more than just seeing another doctor.
John’s meeting with Dr. Umar was the start of John’s recovery of feeling confident and hopeful again, after many years of feeling trapped by a disease that seemed to have an endless grip on John’s life.
For medical details of this case, visit dru.com.
Watch John’s Story
🎥 Watch the fifth chapter of John’s transformation here:
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you love is facing Folliculitis Decalvans (FD), don’t lose heart.
Early, expert attention can change the trajectory of your journey. Watch Anwar’s story, learn more at dru.com, and explore your own next steps toward healing.
At The Bumpinator and The BaldCast, every patient is a hero.
Disclaimer:
This story reflects one patient’s personal experience and treatment by Dr. Sanusi Umar. Individual results vary. Always consult a qualified physician for personalized advice.
