Skin infection NOS

Skin infections are commonly caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites and can range from mild to severe. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for recovery and preventing spread.

Causes:

  • Bacterial Infections: Such as cellulitis, erysipelas, impetigo, and folliculitis, often caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus species.
  • Viral Infections: Including herpes simplex, varicella-zoster (chickenpox and shingles), and warts.
  • Fungal Infections: Like athlete’s foot, ringworm,  thrush
  • Parasitic Infections: Scabies and lice are common examples.

Diagnosis:

  • Clinical Examination: Assessing the appearance, location, and distribution of lesions.
  • Culture and Sensitivity Tests: To identify the causative organism and appropriate antibiotics for bacterial infections.
  • Skin Scraping or Biopsy: For fungal infections or uncertain diagnoses.
  • Blood Tests: In cases of severe or systemic infections.
  • Wood’s Lamp Examination: For certain fungal infections and conditions like vitiligo.

Differential Diagnosis:

  • Allergic Reactions: Can mimic skin infections but usually respond to antihistamines.
  • Inflammatory Skin Conditions: Like eczema or psoriasis.
  • Autoimmune Disorders: Such as lupus can present with skin manifestations.
  • Non-Infectious Skin Lesions: Including benign or malignant growths.

Management:

  • Bacterial Infections:
    • Topical Antibiotics: For localized, mild infections.
      • mupirocin 2% ointment or cream topical 8/24 for 5/7
    • Oral or Intravenous Antibiotics: For more extensive or severe infections.
      • Flucloxacillin 500mg oral QID for up to 7/7 (stop early if resolved)
  • Viral Infections:
    • Antiviral Medications: For herpes or shingles.
    • Topical Treatments: For warts, like salicylic acid or cryotherapy.
  • Fungal Infections:
    • Antifungal Creams: For localized infections like athlete’s foot or ringworm.
    • Oral Antifungal Medications: For more extensive infections or those resistant to topical treatment.
  • Parasitic Infections:
    • Scabicides and Pediculicides: For scabies and lice.
    • Hygiene Measures: To prevent spread and re-infestation.

General Care:

  • Skin Hygiene: Keeping the affected area clean and dry.
  • Avoiding Irritants: Such as harsh soaps or chemicals.
  • Preventing Spread: Proper hygiene and avoiding sharing personal items.
  • Moisturizers: To maintain skin barrier, especially in dry or eczematous skin.

Prevention:

  • Good Hygiene Practices: Regular washing and use of antiseptics for cuts or abrasions.
  • Avoiding Contact: With individuals known to have skin infections.
  • Environmental Measures: Like keeping communal areas clean, especially in schools, gyms, or pools.

Follow-Up:

  • Monitoring response to treatment is important, especially for bacterial infections, to ensure antibiotics are effective. Recurrent or persistent infections may require re-evaluation or referral to a dermatologist.

Early treatment of skin infections is crucial to prevent complications, particularly in individuals with underlying health issues or weakened immune systems.