Scalded skin syndrome

:: Definition :: Causes :: Symptoms :: Treatment :: Further Reading

Search results last updated: 5/9/2009

scalded skin syndrome - Definition: (Source: MedicineNet)

Scalded skin syndrome: A potentially serious side effect of infection with the Staph (Staphylococcus) bacteria that produces a specific protein which loosens the "cement" holding the various layers of the skin together. This allows blister formation and sloughing of the top layer of skin. If it occurs over large body regions it can be deadly (just like a large surface area of the body having been burned). It is necessary to treat scalded skin syndrome with intravenous antibiotics and to protect the skin from allowing dehydration to occur if large areas peel off. The disease occurs predominantly in children under 5 years of age. It is known formally as Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome and as Ritter disease. ...
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Causes of scalded skin syndrome (Source: MedLinePlus)

Scalded skin syndrome is caused by infection with certain strains of bacteria in the Staphylococcus family. During the infection, the staphylococci produce a poison that causes the skin damage. Scalded skin syndrome is found most commonly in infants and children under the age of 5. ... [ read more.. ]

Symptoms of scalded skin syndrome (Source: MedLinePlus)

Fever; Large areas of skin peel or fall away (exfoliation or desquamation); Painful skin; Redness of the skin ( erythema ), which spreads to cover most of the body; Skin slips off with gentle pressure, leaving wet red areas (Nikolsky's sign). ... [ read more.. ]

scalded skin syndrome - Conventional Treatments (Source: MedLinePlus)

Intravenous antibiotics for staphylococcus are given to help fight the infection. Because much fluid is lost through the open skin, it's important to get intravenous fluid to prevent dehydration . Moist compresses to the skin may improve comfort. You can apply an emollient to keep the skin moist. Healing begins about 10 days after treatment. ... [ read more.. ]

Further Reading on scalded skin syndrome

Life-Threatening Skin Rashes ( WebMD ) Life-threatening skin rashes are rare, but when they do occur, you must identify them and go to a doctor quickly. Skin, scalded, syndrome ( MedicineNet ) Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome ( MedicineNet ) Syndrome, scalded skin ( MedicineNet ) Life-Threatening Skin Rashes ( eMedicineHealth )

	scalded skin syndrome: Health Search Results from the Invisible Web

scalded skin syndrome: Health Search Results from the Invisible Web