What are the main types of skin infections. How can you identify different skin infections. What causes various skin infections. How are skin infections treated. When should you seek medical attention for a skin infection.

Understanding the Four Major Categories of Skin Infections

Skin infections are a common health concern that can affect people of all ages. These infections occur when pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites invade the skin. To effectively manage and treat skin infections, it’s crucial to understand their types, causes, symptoms, and available treatments.

There are four primary categories of skin infections:

1. Bacterial skin infections
2. Viral skin infections
3. Fungal skin infections
4. Parasitic skin infections

Each category has distinct characteristics, causative agents, and treatment approaches. Let’s delve deeper into these categories to gain a comprehensive understanding of skin infections.

Bacterial Skin Infections: Causes, Types, and Treatment Options

Bacterial skin infections occur when harmful bacteria enter the skin through various means, such as cuts, wounds, or hair follicles. These infections can be either localized, affecting a specific area, or systemic, impacting the entire body.

Common Types of Bacterial Skin Infections

• Cellulitis
• Impetigo
• Boils
• Hansen’s disease (leprosy)

Systemic infections that can manifest as skin rashes include syphilis, tuberculosis, and leptospirosis. Some bacterial infections, like impetigo, are highly contagious and can spread through direct skin contact or exposure to contaminated surfaces. Others, such as cellulitis, are not contagious.

How are bacterial skin infections treated? The treatment approach depends on the severity and type of infection. Mild cases may be managed with topical antibiotics, while more severe infections often require oral antibiotics or other medical interventions.

Viral Skin Infections: Recognizing Symptoms and Managing Outbreaks

Viral skin infections are caused by various viruses and often result in distinctive skin symptoms. These infections are typically systemic and can be highly contagious.

Examples of Viral Skin Infections

• Shingles (herpes zoster)
• Chickenpox
• Molluscum contagiosum
• Warts
• Measles
• Hand, foot, and mouth disease

How do viral skin infections spread? Most viral skin infections are highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected individuals, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces. Practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected persons can help prevent the spread of these infections.

Fungal Skin Infections: Identifying and Treating Common Fungal Conditions

Fungal skin infections thrive in moist, warm environments and often develop in areas where skin surfaces meet or where there are skin folds. These infections can sometimes trigger allergic reactions, causing symptoms in areas not directly affected by the fungus.

Common Fungal Skin Infections

• Athlete’s foot
• Yeast infections
• Ringworm
• Nail fungus
• Oral thrush
• Diaper rash

How are fungal skin infections treated? Treatment for fungal skin infections typically involves antifungal medications, which can be applied topically or taken orally, depending on the severity and location of the infection. Maintaining good hygiene and keeping affected areas dry can help prevent and manage fungal infections.

Parasitic Skin Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Management

Parasitic skin infections are caused by small organisms that live on or within the skin. While generally not life-threatening, these infections can cause significant discomfort and may spread beyond the skin to the bloodstream and organs if left untreated.

Types of Parasitic Skin Infections

• Lice
• Bedbugs
• Scabies
• Cutaneous larva migrans

How can parasitic skin infections be managed? Treatment for parasitic skin infections often involves topical or oral medications designed to eliminate the parasites. In some cases, environmental management, such as washing bedding and clothing in hot water, may be necessary to prevent reinfestation.

Recognizing Symptoms of Skin Infections: When to Seek Medical Attention

The symptoms of skin infections can vary widely depending on the type of infection, its cause, and individual factors such as the person’s immune system status. However, there are some common signs to watch for:

• Redness on pale skin, or purple or darker areas on darker skin tones
• Lesions that may be flat, raised, bumpy, or wart-like
• Itching
• Pain and tenderness
• Fever (in some cases)

When should you seek medical attention for a skin infection? If you notice any of the following signs of a severe infection, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional promptly:

• Presence of pus
• Formation of blisters
• Skin sloughing (peeling off in layers)
• Fever or chills
• Rapid spread of the infection
• Worsening pain or swelling

Risk Factors for Skin Infections: Understanding Vulnerability and Prevention

While anyone can develop a skin infection, certain factors can increase an individual’s risk. Understanding these risk factors can help in prevention and early detection of skin infections.

Common Risk Factors for Skin Infections

• Weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV, diabetes, or malnutrition
• Side effects of certain medications, such as chemotherapy or biologic drugs
• Age extremes (very young or elderly)
• Presence of skin folds due to obesity
• Poor circulation
• Chronic skin conditions that compromise skin barrier function

How can individuals at higher risk protect themselves from skin infections? Those with increased vulnerability should practice meticulous skin care, maintain good hygiene, avoid sharing personal items, and seek prompt medical attention for any unusual skin changes or wounds that don’t heal properly.

Treatment Approaches for Skin Infections: From Home Remedies to Medical Interventions

The treatment of skin infections varies depending on the type, severity, and cause of the infection. While some mild infections can be managed with over-the-counter medications and home remedies, others require professional medical attention.

Common Treatment Approaches for Skin Infections

• Topical antibiotics for mild bacterial infections
• Oral antibiotics for more severe bacterial infections
• Antiviral medications for certain viral infections
• Antifungal creams or oral medications for fungal infections
• Antiparasitic treatments for parasitic infections
• Wound care and proper hygiene practices
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in some cases

How do healthcare providers determine the best treatment for a skin infection? Diagnosis often involves a physical examination, medical history review, and potentially laboratory tests or skin scrapings to identify the specific pathogen causing the infection. This information guides the selection of the most appropriate treatment approach.

Home Remedies and Self-Care for Mild Skin Infections

For mild skin infections, several home remedies and self-care practices can be effective:

• Keeping the affected area clean and dry
• Applying warm compresses to promote drainage and healing
• Using over-the-counter antibiotic ointments
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort
• Avoiding scratching or picking at the infected area

When should you transition from home care to professional medical treatment? If symptoms persist or worsen after a few days of home treatment, or if you develop signs of a more severe infection, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing the Risk of Skin Infections

While it’s not always possible to prevent skin infections entirely, several strategies can significantly reduce the risk of developing these conditions.

Key Prevention Strategies for Skin Infections

• Practicing good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water
• Keeping skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to moisture
• Avoiding sharing personal items such as towels, razors, or clothing
• Wearing protective footwear in public showers or locker rooms
• Promptly cleaning and treating any cuts, scrapes, or wounds
• Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle to support immune function
• Using insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent insect bites

How can individuals with chronic conditions protect themselves from skin infections? Those with conditions that increase vulnerability to skin infections should work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their underlying condition effectively and develop a personalized skin care routine.

The Role of Proper Skin Care in Infection Prevention

Maintaining healthy skin is crucial in preventing infections. A proper skin care routine can help maintain the skin’s natural barrier function, reducing the risk of pathogen invasion.

• Use gentle, pH-balanced cleansers
• Moisturize regularly to prevent dry, cracked skin
• Protect skin from excessive sun exposure
• Avoid harsh chemicals or irritants that can damage the skin
• Address any underlying skin conditions promptly

How often should you assess your skin for potential infections? Regular self-examinations can help detect early signs of skin infections. Pay particular attention to areas prone to moisture or friction, and any existing wounds or skin conditions.

The Impact of Skin Infections on Quality of Life and Public Health

Skin infections, while often treatable, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and pose broader public health challenges. Understanding these impacts is crucial for both individual management and community-wide prevention efforts.

Individual Impact of Skin Infections

• Physical discomfort and pain
• Emotional distress due to visible symptoms
• Disruption of daily activities and work
• Potential for long-term skin damage or scarring
• Financial burden of medical treatments

How can healthcare providers address the psychological impact of skin infections? A holistic approach to treatment that addresses both physical symptoms and emotional well-being is essential. This may include providing resources for mental health support or counseling when needed.

Public Health Implications of Skin Infections

• Potential for outbreaks in community settings
• Burden on healthcare systems
• Development of antibiotic resistance
• Economic impact due to lost productivity
• Need for public education and prevention programs

What role do public health initiatives play in managing skin infections? Public health efforts focus on education, prevention strategies, and early intervention to reduce the incidence and spread of skin infections within communities. This includes promoting hygiene practices, vaccination programs for preventable infections, and surveillance of antibiotic resistance patterns.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Skin Infection Management

The field of dermatology and infectious disease is continually evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving our understanding and management of skin infections. Several exciting areas of research hold promise for future advancements in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Current Areas of Research in Skin Infection Management

• Development of new antimicrobial agents
• Exploration of the skin microbiome’s role in infection prevention
• Advancements in rapid diagnostic techniques
• Investigation of novel drug delivery systems for topical treatments
• Research into the relationship between skin infections and systemic diseases

How might future advancements change the landscape of skin infection management? Potential developments could lead to more targeted treatments, improved prevention strategies, and better outcomes for patients with skin infections. For example, personalized approaches based on an individual’s skin microbiome could revolutionize prevention and treatment strategies.

The Promise of Immunotherapy in Skin Infection Management

Immunotherapy, which involves modulating the immune system to fight infections, is an exciting area of research in dermatology. This approach could potentially provide new treatment options for challenging skin infections, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems.

What are the potential benefits of immunotherapy for skin infections? Immunotherapy could offer targeted treatments with fewer side effects, potentially reduce the need for antibiotics, and provide options for infections that are currently difficult to treat.

As research continues to advance our understanding of skin infections, healthcare providers and patients alike can look forward to more effective, personalized approaches to prevention and treatment. Staying informed about these developments and working closely with healthcare professionals remains crucial for optimal skin health and infection management.

Pictures, Types, Causes and Treatments

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Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

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Was this helpful?

Various pathogens can cause skin infections, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The symptoms, treatment, and outlook will depend on the cause.

Infections can vary from mild to serious. Most skin infections are highly treatable. However, an infection can become more serious if it goes deeper into the skin or spreads across much of the body.

People with a weakened immune system have a higher risk of skin infections and complications from skin infections. This could be due to:

• a health condition, such as HIV, diabetes, poor circulation, or malnutrition
• a side effect of medication, such as chemotherapy or biologic drug use
• being older or very young
• have skin folds due to obesity

Over-the-counter medications and home remedies can often treat mild infections, but other infections may need medical attention.

Read on to learn more about skin infections and what to do if you have one.

Here are some pictures of some symptoms of various skin infections:

The following are four different types of skin infections:

1.

Bacterial skin infections

Bacterial skin infections occur when bacteria enter the skin, either from an outside source or because they are present on the skin. They can enter the skin through a hair follicle or after a wound.

Anthrax is one type of bacterium that can enter from the environment. Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are bacteria that are commonly present on the skin and only cause a problem in certain circumstances. Lyme disease is a tick-borne infection that causes skin symptoms.

Bacterial infections can be systemic or local. Systemic infections can cause symptoms throughout the whole body, such as a fever, while local infections only affect a specific area. Some bacterial infections can begin in one area and spread throughout the body.

Some bacterial skin infections, such as impetigo, can spread between people through direct skin contact or with bodily fluids, contaminated food or water, or by touching surfaces where bacteria are present. Others, such as cellulitis, are not contagious.

Different types of bacterial skin infections include:

• cellulitis
• impetigo
• boils
• Hansen’s disease (leprosy)

Systemic infections that can cause skin rashes include:

• syphilis
• tuberculosis
• leptospirosis

Some bacterial infections are mild and easy to treat with topical antibiotics, but other infections require an oral antibiotic or other medical treatment.

2. Viral skin infections

Viruses can cause different types of infections that have skin symptoms, such as:

• shingles (herpes zoster)
• chickenpox
• Molluscum contagiosum
• warts
• measles
• hand, foot, and mouth disease

These viruses are often contagious, and most are systemic.

3. Fungal skin infections

These types of skin infections are caused by a fungus and are most likely to develop in moist areas of the body where surfaces meet, such as the feet, armpit, or where there are skin folds.

In some cases, an allergy to the fungus causes symptoms in other areas that are not directly affected. For instance, a person with a fungal infection on the foot might develop a rash on their fingers. It doesn’t happen because the person touched their foot.

Different types of fungal infections:

• athlete’s foot
• yeast infection
• ringworm
• nail fungus
• oral thrush
• diaper rash

4. Parasitic skin infection

These types of skin infections are caused by a parasite. These infections can spread beyond the skin to the bloodstream and organs. A parasitic infection isn’t life-threatening but can be uncomfortable.

Different types of parasitic skin infections include:

• lice
• bedbugs
• scabies
• cutaneous larva migrans

The symptoms of a skin infection will depend on:

• the type of infection
• the cause
• individual factors, such as whether the person has a weakened immune system

Common symptoms of skin infections include:

• redness on pales skin, or purple or darker areas of skin if you have a darker skin tone
• lesions that may be flat or raised, bumpy, wart-like, and so on
• itching
• pain and tenderness

In some cases, a person may also have other symptoms, such as a fever.

Signs of a severe infection include:

• pus
• blisters
• skin sloughing, breakdown
• dark areas that can indicate necrosis or tissue death
• pain and discoloration
• widespread swelling

Is this rash an infection or another skin disorder?

Some types of pathogens — notably bacteria and fungi — are typically present on the skin, but if they become too numerous, the immune system can no longer manage them.

In this case, an infection can result.

The cause of a skin infection depends on the pathogen involved.

Bacterial skin infection

These infections occur when bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin, such as a cut or a scratch.

Not all cuts or scratches lead to a skin infection, but there is a higher risk if you:

• have a weakened immune system
• do not keep the wound clean
• are exposed to certain bacteria, for example, when working outside

Viral skin infection

The most common viruses come from one of three groups of viruses:

• poxviruses, such as:
  • molluscum contagiosum
  • smallpox
  • Mpox
• human papillomavirus (HPV), responsible for genital warts
• herpes viruses, which can lead to
  • herpex simplex viruses (HSV)
  • varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles
  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) which can lead to mononucleosis
  • cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Experts still don’t know how prevalent viruses are on the skin, unlike bacteria and fungi.

Fungal infection

Body chemistry and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of a fungal infection. Fungi often grow in warm, moist environments.

Some risk factors for a fungal infection are:

• having sweaty feet or wearing closed footwear
• wearing sweaty or wet clothes
• having skin folds due to excess body fat
• bathing in contaminated water
• sharing personal items with other people who carry a fungus or have an infection

A break or cut in the skin may allow pathogens to get into the deeper layers of the skin.

Parasitic skin infection

Tiny insects or organisms burrowing underneath your skin and laying eggs can cause a parasitic skin infection.

Examples include:

• Scabies: An infestation of mites, which causes itching, a rash of small pimples, lines on the skin surface, and scaling or crusty skin.
• Pediculosis: This is an infection caused by lice. It can cause itching, and lice and nits — their eggs — may be visible.
• Creeping eruption: Caused by hookworms, this can cause a winding, snake-like rash.

Often, doctors can identify the type of skin infection based on their appearance and location.

The doctor may:

• ask about symptoms
• examine any bumps, rashes, or lesions
• take a sample of skin cells for testing in a laboratory

See a doctor if you have:

• pus-filled blisters
• severe or widespread swelling or inflammation
• a skin infection that doesn’t improve or gets progressively worse
• a high fever or other symptoms
• frequent or recurring rashes or infections

Skin infections can spread beyond the skin and into tissues under the skin or the bloodstream, especially in people with a compromised immune system.

When this happens it can lead to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition.

If you need help finding a dermatologist, then check out our FindCare tool here.

The outlook will depend on the cause, type, and severity of the infection.

Many skin infections respond well to medication. However, some conditions, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), are resistant to common antibiotics and harder to treat.

Ways of reducing the risk of a skin infection or rash include:

• washing regularly
• drying the body to remove all moisture
• avoiding sharing personal items with other people
• checking the skin regularly for changes and seeking advice as soon as signs of an infection appear
• having the recommended vaccinations to prevent diseases such as chickenpox

What are the main types of skin infections?

Skin infections can be:

• bacterial, commonly caused by Streptococcal or Staphylococcal bacteria
• viral, such as chickenpox or warts
• fungal, for instance, a yeast infection
• parasitic, for example, scabies

What does a bacterial skin infection look like?

This will depend on the infection, but it will usually involve inflammation and swelling.

What is the most common bacterial infection of the skin?

Impetigo is a common example of a bacterial infection. Others include cellulitis and Lyme disease.

The most common bacteria associated with skin infections are the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species.

Skin infections can result from bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic causes. The way they affect the body will depend on the specific pathogen. Some cause skin symptoms as part of a wider infection, while others cause local symptoms only.

Skin infections are often highly treatable, but severe symptoms and complications can arise if a person has a weakened immune system.

Some infections are are contagious, such as scabies, and people need to take care not to pass them on before or during treatment.

See your doctor if you have any concerns about signs of a skin infection.

Read this article in Spanish.

Pictures, Types, Causes and Treatments

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Various pathogens can cause skin infections, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The symptoms, treatment, and outlook will depend on the cause.

Infections can vary from mild to serious. Most skin infections are highly treatable. However, an infection can become more serious if it goes deeper into the skin or spreads across much of the body.

People with a weakened immune system have a higher risk of skin infections and complications from skin infections. This could be due to:

• a health condition, such as HIV, diabetes, poor circulation, or malnutrition
• a side effect of medication, such as chemotherapy or biologic drug use
• being older or very young
• have skin folds due to obesity

Over-the-counter medications and home remedies can often treat mild infections, but other infections may need medical attention.

Read on to learn more about skin infections and what to do if you have one.

Here are some pictures of some symptoms of various skin infections:

The following are four different types of skin infections:

1. Bacterial skin infections

Bacterial skin infections occur when bacteria enter the skin, either from an outside source or because they are present on the skin. They can enter the skin through a hair follicle or after a wound.

Anthrax is one type of bacterium that can enter from the environment. Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are bacteria that are commonly present on the skin and only cause a problem in certain circumstances. Lyme disease is a tick-borne infection that causes skin symptoms.

Bacterial infections can be systemic or local. Systemic infections can cause symptoms throughout the whole body, such as a fever, while local infections only affect a specific area. Some bacterial infections can begin in one area and spread throughout the body.

Some bacterial skin infections, such as impetigo, can spread between people through direct skin contact or with bodily fluids, contaminated food or water, or by touching surfaces where bacteria are present. Others, such as cellulitis, are not contagious.

Different types of bacterial skin infections include:

• cellulitis
• impetigo
• boils
• Hansen’s disease (leprosy)

Systemic infections that can cause skin rashes include:

• syphilis
• tuberculosis
• leptospirosis

Some bacterial infections are mild and easy to treat with topical antibiotics, but other infections require an oral antibiotic or other medical treatment.

2. Viral skin infections

Viruses can cause different types of infections that have skin symptoms, such as:

• shingles (herpes zoster)
• chickenpox
• Molluscum contagiosum
• warts
• measles
• hand, foot, and mouth disease

These viruses are often contagious, and most are systemic.

3. Fungal skin infections

These types of skin infections are caused by a fungus and are most likely to develop in moist areas of the body where surfaces meet, such as the feet, armpit, or where there are skin folds.

In some cases, an allergy to the fungus causes symptoms in other areas that are not directly affected. For instance, a person with a fungal infection on the foot might develop a rash on their fingers. It doesn’t happen because the person touched their foot.

Different types of fungal infections:

• athlete’s foot
• yeast infection
• ringworm
• nail fungus
• oral thrush
• diaper rash

4.

Parasitic skin infection

These types of skin infections are caused by a parasite. These infections can spread beyond the skin to the bloodstream and organs. A parasitic infection isn’t life-threatening but can be uncomfortable.

Different types of parasitic skin infections include:

• lice
• bedbugs
• scabies
• cutaneous larva migrans

The symptoms of a skin infection will depend on:

• the type of infection
• the cause
• individual factors, such as whether the person has a weakened immune system

Common symptoms of skin infections include:

• redness on pales skin, or purple or darker areas of skin if you have a darker skin tone
• lesions that may be flat or raised, bumpy, wart-like, and so on
• itching
• pain and tenderness

In some cases, a person may also have other symptoms, such as a fever.

Signs of a severe infection include:

• pus
• blisters
• skin sloughing, breakdown
• dark areas that can indicate necrosis or tissue death
• pain and discoloration
• widespread swelling

Is this rash an infection or another skin disorder?

Some types of pathogens — notably bacteria and fungi — are typically present on the skin, but if they become too numerous, the immune system can no longer manage them.

In this case, an infection can result.

The cause of a skin infection depends on the pathogen involved.

Bacterial skin infection

These infections occur when bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin, such as a cut or a scratch.

Not all cuts or scratches lead to a skin infection, but there is a higher risk if you:

• have a weakened immune system
• do not keep the wound clean
• are exposed to certain bacteria, for example, when working outside

Viral skin infection

The most common viruses come from one of three groups of viruses:

• poxviruses, such as:
  • molluscum contagiosum
  • smallpox
  • Mpox
• human papillomavirus (HPV), responsible for genital warts
• herpes viruses, which can lead to
  • herpex simplex viruses (HSV)
  • varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles
  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) which can lead to mononucleosis
  • cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Experts still don’t know how prevalent viruses are on the skin, unlike bacteria and fungi.

Fungal infection

Body chemistry and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of a fungal infection. Fungi often grow in warm, moist environments.

Some risk factors for a fungal infection are:

• having sweaty feet or wearing closed footwear
• wearing sweaty or wet clothes
• having skin folds due to excess body fat
• bathing in contaminated water
• sharing personal items with other people who carry a fungus or have an infection

A break or cut in the skin may allow pathogens to get into the deeper layers of the skin.

Parasitic skin infection

Tiny insects or organisms burrowing underneath your skin and laying eggs can cause a parasitic skin infection.

Examples include:

• Scabies: An infestation of mites, which causes itching, a rash of small pimples, lines on the skin surface, and scaling or crusty skin.
• Pediculosis: This is an infection caused by lice. It can cause itching, and lice and nits — their eggs — may be visible.
• Creeping eruption: Caused by hookworms, this can cause a winding, snake-like rash.

Often, doctors can identify the type of skin infection based on their appearance and location.

The doctor may:

• ask about symptoms
• examine any bumps, rashes, or lesions
• take a sample of skin cells for testing in a laboratory

See a doctor if you have:

• pus-filled blisters
• severe or widespread swelling or inflammation
• a skin infection that doesn’t improve or gets progressively worse
• a high fever or other symptoms
• frequent or recurring rashes or infections

Skin infections can spread beyond the skin and into tissues under the skin or the bloodstream, especially in people with a compromised immune system.

When this happens it can lead to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition.

If you need help finding a dermatologist, then check out our FindCare tool here.

The outlook will depend on the cause, type, and severity of the infection.

Many skin infections respond well to medication. However, some conditions, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), are resistant to common antibiotics and harder to treat.

Ways of reducing the risk of a skin infection or rash include:

• washing regularly
• drying the body to remove all moisture
• avoiding sharing personal items with other people
• checking the skin regularly for changes and seeking advice as soon as signs of an infection appear
• having the recommended vaccinations to prevent diseases such as chickenpox

What are the main types of skin infections?

Skin infections can be:

• bacterial, commonly caused by Streptococcal or Staphylococcal bacteria
• viral, such as chickenpox or warts
• fungal, for instance, a yeast infection
• parasitic, for example, scabies

What does a bacterial skin infection look like?

This will depend on the infection, but it will usually involve inflammation and swelling.

What is the most common bacterial infection of the skin?

Impetigo is a common example of a bacterial infection. Others include cellulitis and Lyme disease.

The most common bacteria associated with skin infections are the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species.

Skin infections can result from bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic causes. The way they affect the body will depend on the specific pathogen. Some cause skin symptoms as part of a wider infection, while others cause local symptoms only.

Skin infections are often highly treatable, but severe symptoms and complications can arise if a person has a weakened immune system.

Some infections are are contagious, such as scabies, and people need to take care not to pass them on before or during treatment.

See your doctor if you have any concerns about signs of a skin infection.

Read this article in Spanish.

What you need to know about the skin

Maymasov Igor Gennadievich
doctor of the consultative and diagnostic department,
dermatologist of the highest qualification category

• Touch and analysis – there are many receptors (nerve endings) on the skin, with the help of which the state of the environment is determined – pressure, temperature, pain – and the call for an adequate response to its change. On one square centimeter of skin, there are approximately the following number of receptors: pain – up to 100, tactile sensitivity – 25, cold – up to 15 and heat – 2.
• Thermoregulation – up to 80% of heat transfer falls on the skin, the pores on the skin can expand or narrow, regulating the process of heat exchange with the environment, the same happens with capillaries.
• Excretion, or excretion – along with sweat, the skin removes not only excess heat, but also harmful or excess metabolic products, such as urea, free radicals in toxic poisoning and other compounds, and also performs gas exchange, releasing carbon dioxide and absorbing oxygen.
• Metabolism and metabolism – maintenance of water-salt, carbon, protein, enzymatic balance, synthesis of vitamin D3 and some hormones, as well as their accumulation.
• Protection of immunity – antigens are captured, processed and transformed through the skin, after which an immune reaction develops on them.
• Accumulation of blood – in the capillaries and small vessels of the skin of an adult can be (deposited) more than a liter of blood.

Considering such a variety of important functions performed by the largest human organ – the skin, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bwhich can exceed 2 meters squared, and whose weight can exceed a sixth of the body’s weight – one can imagine how dangerous its lesions can be, both in themselves and and in relation to diseases of other organs. So, violation of the excretion of the skin aggravates the course of renal failure, stopping the removal of excess urea through the pores.

On the other hand, the skin is a mirror of human health, as it reflects various autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal tract and many others.

But human skin itself is subject to diseases and various mechanical, chemical, thermal, electrical and radiation damage, some of which can pass on their own (with minor household exposure, the epidermis is completely renewed or regenerated in 20 days), but in all other cases, the services of a qualified dermatologist will be required .

One of the possible causes of dermatoses are disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system. It has long been known that diseases such as eczema, urticaria, pruritus and others arise as a result of primary functional changes in the central nervous system that develop under the influence of mental and emotional factors.

An important role in the development of a number of skin diseases is played by infection, most often in the form of chronic tonsillitis, sinusitis, carious teeth. The role of focal infection in the development of such diseases as urticaria, erythema multiforme exudative, psoriasis, lupus erythematosus, etc. has been established. The role of heredity is especially clearly manifested in diseases such as ichthyosis, xeroderma pigmentosum, epidermolysis bullosa, keratoderma, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis.

Skin diseases can be the result of skin metastasis of tumors or infection, and also result from a direct transition to the skin of the pathological process from the affected underlying organs or tissues.

Skin diseases are complex and varied in their development. In addition to nervous and hereditary mechanisms, changes in the natural reactivity of the body and disturbances in the immune system play an important role in the development of many dermatoses. So in the development of a large group of dermatoses, such as eczema, allergic dermatitis, urticaria, allergies are of primary importance, with lupus erythematosus and pemphigus – autoimmune processes, a number of dermatoses are caused by secondary cellular immunodeficiency.

As for the allergic development of dermatoses, in some cases, the allergization of the body occurs due to allergens that act directly on the skin upon contact with it, or when it enters the body with food or drugs, in others, infectious agents cause allergies (infectious or bacterial allergies ), existing in humans in foci of chronic infection or in common infectious diseases, mycoses.

The treatment of dermatosis includes general and local therapy, with general therapy being the main treatment in most cases. In order to choose methods of treating skin diseases, it is necessary to first conduct a deep and comprehensive examination of the patient, which will identify the factors that caused the disease, as well as the factors that resolve and predispose to the development of the disease in each case.

The division of treatment into general and local is conditional, since the local application of certain methods of therapy or drugs has a more or less pronounced effect on the general condition of the body.
Treatment should be carried out strictly individually, taking into account the sex and age of the patient, anamnestic data, the results of previous treatment, and the tolerance of drugs. The form, stage and prevalence of dermatoses should also be taken into account.

The effectiveness of the treatment of patients with dermatoses largely depends on their relationship with the doctor of an ethical order. Modern medicine equips the doctor with a large stock of versatile knowledge. And the doctor must be able to use them correctly in the interests of the patient. The patient entrusts the doctor with the most precious thing a person has – his health, so he must trust the doctor and be confident in him. The authority of a doctor is ensured primarily by his competence, conscientious work and humane attitude towards the patient. The general laws of the course and treatment of any disease must be correlated with the characteristics of its manifestation in a given patient and the specific circumstances of its development. The correct, individual, psychotherapeutic approach to the patient, to a certain extent, provides positive results of drug therapy for most dermatoses.

What are the specific skin diseases in children of the first year of life?

In children of the first year of life
there are features of the structure of the skin. Anatomical, functional feature
their skin contributes to the very rapid appearance of scuffs, irritations and
the spread of infection. Therefore, they often have skin diseases. Except
specific skin diseases inherent only in children of the first year of life, they
may have exactly the same dermatological diseases as older ones
children and adults.

• Newborn pimples

Skin diseases may
arise from the first month of life and manifest themselves in the form of various rashes.
At first, they appear mainly on the face in the form of dots and are called milia. Cause
in the fact that against the background of maternal hormones in children, a blockage of sebaceous and
sweat glands. By the month, pimples spread all over the face. They are also called
“pimples of newborns”, and people say – “the child is blooming”.

The child frequently touches his face and
unclogs clogged pores. They get an infection from the skin, pimples form.
They have nothing to do with allergies. At this age, the child develops
rarely. In addition, allergic rashes never choose localization – not
occur only on the face, or only on the neck, or on the upper chest.
Allergic manifestations occur throughout the skin, and this is their main difference.

• Seborrheic crusts

A characteristic disease for
children of the first year of life are seborrheic crusts. This is the secretion of the sebaceous glands
near the hair follicles on the eyebrows and scalp. They show up at 2
months and go in 6-7 months. Seborrheic crusts require only processing: softening,
moisturizing, a little combing – and not with a comb, but with your hands – after
washing when the child’s skin is steamed. These states do not represent any
danger.

• Diaper dermatitis

In a child of the first year of life
special skin. It often forms a variety of scuffs, especially when the skin
rubs against clothes, or legs rub against each other. These abrasions should be immediately
treated to prevent infection.

Most common rashes,
abrasions, irritations and infections occur in the perineum.
In another way, it is called “diaper dermatitis”: what occurs under
diaper when misused. This disease occurs in
children from the first days of life. The child is in pain, the parents are worried. Need a consultation here
pediatrician. Parents should discuss with him questions of choice and use
diapers and treatment of various stages of diaper dermatitis.

Diaper dermatitis is one of the
the most common reasons for visiting a pediatrician worldwide. But it is easily cured
requires complex procedures. It is only necessary to create a barrier against further
infections, maintain optimal humidity, apply products that have
neutral pH, reduce the pain component. The pediatrician leading the child should
teach parents how to care for the skin in the diaper area, methods of treatment
diaper dermatitis. For treatment to be effective, it is necessary
skin examination – it is required to assess the stage of diaper dermatitis, the degree
skin lesions and the possible presence of an infectious agent.

• Atopic dermatitis

Atopy is a type of allergy, not
associated with a particular allergen. Roughly speaking, this is an allergy to any
impact. Most often it is manifested by severe hyperemia.
(redness), swelling, itching and rashes. Atopic dermatitis appears in
very early age, literally from the first months of life. This dermatitis often occurs
with intolerance to cow’s milk protein. First of all, this concerns
children who receive artificial feeding or little breast milk, but with
This consume a lot of foods containing cow’s milk protein. Unlike
pimples of a newborn, rashes of atopic dermatitis appear all over
body in the form of burn surfaces, especially in the popliteal and ankle
areas, in the cervical folds and in the perineum.

Manifestations of this disease
occur in children who are prone to atopic process. Usually these are large
children with a so-called lymphatic constitution, who quickly put on weight.

Atopic dermatitis can be of two
types: food and contact. The first has to do with nutrition. In that
In this case, the pediatrician must evaluate what the mother eats and work out a diet for her. diet
moms shouldn’t be stingy! In this case, her metabolic processes are disturbed,
and the milk also becomes scarce. Ideally, you should try to
identify a food allergen. The mother’s diet should be handled by a qualified pediatrician,
sometimes together with an allergist.

Atopy can also be caused by
exposure to an external stimulus during contact interaction. This atopy occurs
on washing powders or on some atmospheric manifestations. For example,
it is known that in some children atopy can be a reaction to cold, water,
changes in weather conditions – that is, literally on any irritant.

Treatment of atopic dermatitis in
children of the first year of life is carried out by a pediatrician, and only in the absence of
effect, they turn to a dermatologist and an allergist. Atopic manifestations can
be long and go into neurodermatitis, eczema and other conditions.
Therefore, the treatment of older children is most often carried out jointly.
pediatricians and dermatologists.

• Child care
  first year of life in the Ilyinsky hospital

A pediatrician is the family’s first line of defense. Pediatricians Ilinskaya
hospitals monitor the development of the child, carry out the correction of functional
disorders and treatment of diseases. We advise parents on basic
issues of concern to the family – feeding, assessment of physical and psychomotor
development, vaccination, give advice within the framework of the program “Care for
development”.

At the Ilinskaya hospital, we adhere to
internationally recognized position: the child needs additional consultations
only if a pediatrician identifies a problem, or if he has doubts about
any question. The timing of the examination of the child by narrow profile doctors is determined
an objective need for the child, and not just conditional periods of his life.

Keshishyan Elena Solomonovna

Pediatric neonatologist, pediatric neurologist

Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor.