Bacterial Infections

Question 1

What are the skin disorders under bacterial infections?

Answer 1

• impetigo
• folliculitis
• cellulitis
• staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

Question 2

What are these skin disorders caused by?

Answer 2

These bacterial skin infections are often caused by Staphylococcus aureus and group A β-hemolytic streptococcus, which are ordinarily normal flora on the skin

Question 3

Impetigo (nonbullous)

Answer 3

Def: generally follows some type of skin trauma or may arise as a secondary bacterial infection of another skin disorder, such as atopic dermatitis.

Skin Findings:
- Papules progressing to vesicles, then painless pustules with a narrow erythematous border
- Honey-colored exudate when the vesicles or pustules rupture, which forms a crust on the ulcer-like base

Tx:
- Limited amount: treat topically with mupirocin ointment
- If numerous lesions, oral first-generation cephalosporin is indicated
- Clindamycin may be needed for MRSA
- Remove honey-colored crust with cool compresses twice daily

Question 4

Impetigo (Bullous)

Answer 4

Definition: demonstrates a sporadic occurrence pattern and develops on intact skin, resulting from toxin production by S. aureus

Skin Findings:
- Red macules and bullous eruptions on an erythematous base
- Size may be from a few millimeters to several centimeters

Tx:
- Oral first-generation cephalosporin
- Good hygiene

Question 5

Folliculitis

Answer 5

Definition: infection of the hair follicle, most often results from occlusion of the hair follicle. It may occur as a result of poor hygiene, prolonged contact with contaminated water, maceration, a moist environment, or use of occlusive emollient products

S/s:
- red, raised hair follicles

Tx:
- Treat with aggressive hygiene: warm compresses after washing with soap and water several times a day
- Topical mupirocin is indicated; occasionally oral antibiotics are required

Question 6

Cellulitis

Question 7

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome