infections on the scalp

My husband has alot of red bunps on his scalp it is as though his hair folicals are infected. they are very painful and they get alot of pus in them .He has had them tested and no one can figure out what they are . His brother has them also but maybe not as much ,Im not sure . They are spreading all over his head . Our family doctor gave us a perscription for a steroid but it doesnt seem to be working. Another dermatoligist actually shot cortizone in them it didn't work either. can you help?does this sound like anything you have ever delt with.He cant even sleep at night they hurt him so much.

[Dr_Smita_S]

Hi

It would be difficult to diagnose your condition without a physical examination. However, from the description, your husband might be suffering from scalp (seborrheic) dermatitis or scalp eczema or scalp psoriasis. The exact diagnosis depends on clinical examination.

Seborrheic dermatitis presents as dry skin on the scalp, which flakes off (dandruff). The skin on the face, behind the ears, eyelids, nose and chest may also be affected. Symptoms of scalp eczema may include greasy yellowish scales that may turn flake off along intensely itchy and inflamed red scalp. In psoriasis, the scales are dry, silvery or powdery, raised and moderately itchy.

You should consult a dermatologist for a complete evaluation and proper treatment.  Seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp can be treated effectively by using an anti-dandruff dandruff shampoo containing ketoconazole, tar, pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide or salicylic acid; topical creams containing hydrocortisone and with light therapy. Longstanding condition may take time to resolve and may recur when treatment is stopped.
Take care