Dermatology

Bacterial Skin Infections

Bacterial Skin Infections | Cellulitis | Folliculitis, Boils, and Carbuncles | Other Bacterial Skin Infections | Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

What is staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome?

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome is a skin infection that is characterized by peeling skin. The disease mostly affects infants, young children, and persons with a depressed immune system.

What are the symptoms of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome?

The following are the most common symptoms of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. However, each individual experiences symptoms differently:

crusted infection site, often on the nose or ears
red, painful areas around infection site
blistering
fever
chills
weakness
fluid loss
top layer of skin begins peeling off in large sheets

After the top layer of skin has peeled off, the following symptoms may be present:

fever
chills
weakness
fluid loss

The symptoms of staphylococcal scaled skin syndrome may resemble other dermatologic conditions. Consult a physician for diagnosis.

How is staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually confirmed with a biopsy (taking a tissue sample to be examined under a microscope).

Treatment for staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome:
Treatment usually requires hospitalization, often in the burn unit of a hospital. Specific treatment for staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome will be determined by your physician, based on:

your overall health, age, and medical history
severity of the condition
your tolerance of specific medications, procedures, or therapies
your opinion or preference

Treatment may include one, or several, of the following:

oral antibiotics
intravenous, penicillin-type antibiotics

This page was last updated on: February 1, 2008.

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