Final answer:
Gram-negative folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles characterized by itchy and pus-filled bumps and treated with antibiotics. It is distinguished clinically by the Gram staining technique which identifies bacterial cell wall properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gram-negative folliculitis is a bacterial skin infection that affects the hair follicles, often presenting as red, itchy, and pus-filled bumps. While the infection can be self-limiting, persistent or worsening cases require medical intervention, potentially including topical antibiotics. Folliculitis can be exacerbated by factors like sweat, skin injuries, ingrown hairs, and irritation from tight clothing or shaving. An accurate diagnosis usually involves a skin inspection, and treatment is initiated without necessarily culturing the causative agent.
Clinical diagnosis of an infection usually involves determining whether the causal bacteria are gram-positive or gram-negative, based on their cell wall properties revealed by a Gram stain. Infections caused by gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus often require careful antibiotic selection due to potential resistance, whereas gram-negative folliculitis would be caused by different bacteria and also treated accordingly.