Skin Infections

Bacterial skin infections are caused by pathogenic bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus (including the MRSA variant) and Streptococcus pyogenes. Bacterial skin and soft tissue infections account for more than 14 million physician office visits each year in the United States. Bacterial infections are easily spread by skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. Treatment for bacterial skin infections usually involves antibiotics, either topical or oral, depending on the severity and extent of the infection. Proper wound care and hygiene practices are essential to prevent the spread of bacteria and recurrence of infections.

Bacterial infections can occur anywhere on the body and may manifest as:

• Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the deeper layers of the skin, often characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness.
• Impetigo: A very contagious infection characterized by honey-colored crusts or blisters, typically occurring around the nose and mouth in children. The infection is readily passed on to other children and can spread by scratching.
• Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, presenting as small, red bumps or pustules that may be itchy or tender.
• Boils (Furuncles): Painful, pus-filled lumps (abscess) that develop in hair follicles, often accompanied by fever and swollen lymph nodes. The most common places for boils to appear are on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders, and buttocks. Sometimes these collections of fluid require drainage instead of (or in addition to) antibotics.

Fungal skin infections are caused by various fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. Antifungal medications, such as topical creams, ointments, or oral medications, are typically used to treat fungal skin infections. Keeping the affected area clean, dry, and well-ventilated can help prevent the recurrence of fungal infections.

Common fungal infections include:

• Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis): A fungal infection of the feet, characterized by itching, burning, redness, and cracking of the skin, particularly between the toes.
• Jock itch (Tinea Cruris): A fungal infection of the genitals, inner thigh, and buttocks.
• Onychomycosis (Nail Fungus): A fungal infection of the nails, most frequently the toenails that is more difficult to treat than an infection in the skin. The nails may become discolored, thickened and have crumbling debris underneath the nail plate. Up to 15% of the United States adult population may have toenail fungus.
• Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): A fungal infection that causes ring-shaped, red, scaly patches on the skin, often with a raised border and clear center.
• Yeast Infections (Candidiasis): Fungal infections caused by Candida species, which can affect the skin, nails, and mucous membranes, leading to itching, redness, and discomfort.

Viral skin infections are caused by viruses and can range from mild and self-limiting to severe and potentially life-threatening. Treatment for viral skin infections may include antiviral medications, pain relievers, and supportive care to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Vaccination against certain viruses, such as varicella-zoster virus and human papillomavirus, can help prevent infection and transmission.

Common viral skin infections include:

• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Causes cold sores or genital herpes, characterized by painful blisters or sores on the lips, mouth, or genital area. This viral infection can flare up during illness (fevers), stress or sun exposure.
• Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV): Causes chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster), both of which present with a blistering rash and can be accompanied by fever and fatigue. The virus lives dormant for decades after getting the chickenpox, and if it is reactivated it causes shingles.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Causes common warts, plantar warts, and genital warts, which are characterized by rough, raised bumps on the skin or mucous membranes.
• Molluscum contagiosum: This infection is due to a poxvirus and causes small, skin-colored bumps that usually disappear in 6-12 months without treatment. It often affects children but can affect anyone who acquires the virus. It can also present on the genitalia as a sexually transmitted disease.

Parasitic skin infections are caused by various parasites, including mites, lice, and ticks, which infest the skin and cause irritation, itching, and discomfort. Common parasitic skin infections scabies, head lice and tick bites. Treatment for parasitic skin infections typically involves topical or oral medications to kill the parasites and alleviate symptoms. In the case of tick bites, prompt removal of the tick and monitoring for signs of infection are essential to prevent complications.