What condition is characterized by infections of hair follicles leading to the formation of pustules?

Furunculosis is the condition characterized by infections of hair follicles, which typically lead to the formation of pustules, also known as boils. This condition results from the infection of a hair follicle often caused by bacteria, primarily Staphylococcus aureus. When a hair follicle becomes infected, it can result in painful, swollen areas filled with pus, which are the pustules. These boils can appear in clusters or isolated, and they may cause discomfort and significant inflammation in the affected area.

In contrast, dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin that can have various causes but does not specifically involve the infection of hair follicles or the formation of pustules. Alopecia is primarily a condition related to hair loss without the involvement of infections or pustules, while psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that leads to the rapid growth of skin cells, resulting in scales and redness but not typically pustules associated with hair follicle infections.