Are You Confident of the Diagnosis? Characteristic findings on physical examination Ecthyma is an ulcerative infection of the skin, caused by group-A beta-hemolytic streptococci. In its earliest stage, ecthyma may present in a similar fashion to impetigo. Lesions of ecthyma may result from primary infection, or from secondary infection of other lesions or wounds. There…
Are You Confident of the Diagnosis? There are three types of anthrax: pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and cutaneous. Cutaneous anthrax occurs when spores enter a cut or break in the skin. Symptoms usually occur within seven days. Initial symptoms of cutaneous anthrax may include “flu-like” symptoms, such as a low-grade fever and general fatigue. Lymph nodes may…
Are You Confident of the Diagnosis? Impetigo is a superficial bacterial infection of the skin, which is caused by Staphylococcus aureus and beta-hemolytic streptococci. It is the most common bacterial skin infection in children. It is highly infectious, and is spread with direct contact with the skin or fomite. Characteristic findings on physical examination Impetigo…
Are You Confident of the Diagnosis? What you should be alert for in the history Furuncles are most commonly a manifestation of a Staphylococcus aureus infection. Most individuals with furunculosis are nasal carriers of S. aureus. For this reason, many individuals have recurrent disease. Characteristic findings on physical examination A furuncle is a localized infection,…
Are You Confident of the Diagnosis? A cutaneous abscess is a localized collection of purulent material. It is most commonly a manifestation of a staphylococcal infection. Abscesses are commonly located in the axillae, groin, and rectal area, but can be located in any area. Characteristic findings on physical examination On physical examination, they are characterized…
Are You Confident of the Diagnosis? Staphylococcal infections of the skin are most commonly caused by the organism Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus epidermidis causes a smaller number of infections in this category. Skin infections are one of the most common manifestations of staphylococcal infections. The most common manifestations include folliculitis, furunculosis, impetigo, cellulitis, and abscesses. With…
