Staphylococcal Infections
Staphylococci are organisms which are commonly distributed and are found in the skin and upper respiratory tract.
They may be present without producing any pathology. However, staphylococci are also associated with purulent skin infections like furunculosis, impetigo and abscesses.
These organisms can also cause pathology in the lungs, brain, meninges, gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow.
In this issue, let us focus on the staphylococcal skin infections. Pyodermas are observed in the form of furunculosis, folliculitis, impetigo, abscesses, carbuncles and cellulitis. Inoculation of the staphylococcal organisms may be through a break in the skin or through the pores, hair follicles, and sweat and sebaceous glands.
1. Furunculosis is common in exposed areas like the face, scalp, axilla and other moist areas. It appears as small inflammatory masses that tend to fluctuate with central suppuration.
2. Folliculitis is a superficial infection of the hair follicle that appears as pustules with an erythematous base located in the scalp, extremities or circumoral area.
3. Impetigo can be seen on the face and trunk and is characterized by vesiculobullous lesions which ruptures and develop crusts that resemble cigarette burns.
4. Abscesses are larger and more deep-seated. They can be located anywhere and may originate in a regional draining lymph node.
5. Carbuncles are confluent furuncles with multiple points of drainage.
Staphylococcal skin infections in children are managed with antibiotics. Parents are also advised the following:
1. Daily bath
2. No outside shoes and slippers in the house or areas where children are there
3. Cleaning, and disinfection should be regular