Skin is a barrier between the internal organs and the environment. However, because of frequent breaks in the skin, infections can occur. Approximately 15 percent of all patients who seek medical attention have either some skin disease or lesion, many of which are infectious, according to "Bailey and Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology." Bacterial causes of skin infections are frequently linked to Staphylococcus aureus and group A streptococcus.
Furuncles
Boils or furuncles are localized abscesses either in or around hair follicles. The abscess begins as a red nodule in a hair follicle that ultimately becomes painful and full of pus. The nodule is a raised, solid lesion larger than one-half a centimeter. Typically, boils happen as a result of blockage of the hair follicle with skin oils, or through minor trauma caused by friction (like clothes rubbing the skin). Staphylococcus aureus is the most common organism implicated in boils. The treatment for boils includes the use of moist heat and an incision of the lesion.
Carbuncles
Carbuncles are basically furuncles that spread into the deeper regions of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. It is characterized by a painful nodule covered under red skin which later perforates and produces pus discharge through several openings. Carbuncles are most frequently seen on the nape of the neck, upper back or buttocks. Fever is a symptom also sometimes seen with carbuncles. Incision and antibiotics are used to treat carbuncles. Like a furuncle, carbuncles are usually caused by the bacterium, Staphylococcus aureus.
Impetigo
This skin infection can be caused by either Staphylococcus aureus or group A streptococci or a combination of the two bacteria. Impetigo usually occurs around the mouth or nostril areas of the face but can be found elsewhere on the body. The infection appears as red lesions which become crusted and may rupture. Treatment for impetigo is through the use of antibiotics.
Erysipeloid
This is a bacterial skin infection caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. It is typically an occupational infection acquired through handling fish. Usually appearing on the hands, erysipeloid is a painful, localized infection which appears as a purplish-red lesion with an irregular, raised border. Appropriate treatment is with the use of antibiotics.
Scalded Skin Syndrome
This syndrome is caused by a toxin produced by some strains of Staphylococcus aureus. The toxin which usually affects newborns causes extensive sloughing of the outer layers of the skin, causing the patient to appear as if he is severely burned. It does not affect the deeper areas of the skin
References
- "Bailey and Scott's Diagnostic Microbiology;" Betty Forbes, Ph.D.; 2002
- "Control of Communicable Diseases Manual;" David Heymann, M.D.; 2008
- University of Virginia Dermatology
