From the Guidelines
Staphylococcal skin infections typically present with redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area, and the most common symptom is the appearance of a painful, red bump or boil that may be filled with pus, as noted in the 2018 WSES/SIS-E consensus conference 1.
Symptoms of Staphylococcal Skin Infections
The symptoms of Staphylococcal skin infections can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Some common symptoms include:
- Redness and swelling in the affected area
- Warmth and tenderness to the touch
- Painful, red bumps or boils that may be filled with pus
- Skin that appears red and inflamed around small blisters or honey-colored crusts, characteristic of impetigo
- Fever, chills, and fatigue in more severe cases
- Expanding areas of redness and swelling, characteristic of cellulitis
Classification of Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
The 2018 WSES/SIS-E consensus conference recommends classifying skin and soft-tissue infections based on the necrotizing or non-necrotizing character of the infection, the anatomical extension, the characteristics of the infection (purulent or not purulent), and the clinical condition of the patient 1. This classification system can help guide treatment decisions and ensure that patients receive appropriate care.
Importance of Seeking Medical Attention
It is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen despite home care, or if there is rapid spreading of redness, fever, or other signs of infection 1. Staph bacteria can thrive on the skin and in mucous membranes, and infections can occur when these bacteria enter through breaks in the skin, leading to localized inflammation and pus formation as the body's immune system responds to the infection. Prompt medical attention can help prevent the spread of infection and reduce the risk of complications.
From the Research
Symptoms of Staphylococcal Skin Infections
The symptoms of Staphylococcal skin infections can vary depending on the severity and type of infection. Some common symptoms include:
- Primary pyodermas, which are superficial, localized, and sometimes self-limiting infections 2
- Cellulitis, which is an infection of the soft tissues 2, 3
- Pyomyositis, which is an infection of the muscle 2
- Surgical site infections, which can occur after surgery 2
- Infections in intravenous drug users, which can occur at the site of injection 2
- Peeling skin, which can occur at sites of external pressure, such as peripheral intravenous sites or under dressings 4
- Sepsis, which can cause symptoms such as temperature instability, apnea, and bradycardia episodes 4
- Localized pustules, boils, tears, or crusts, which can be signs of a Staphylococcal skin infection 4, 3
- Cardinal signs of inflammatory response, such as fever, rapid progression of lesions, and bullae 5
Severity of Infections
The severity of Staphylococcal skin infections can range from mild to severe, and the choice of treatment depends on the severity of the infection. Some infections may be self-limiting, while others may require antibiotic treatment or even hospitalization 2, 3, 5.
Types of Infections
There are different types of Staphylococcal skin infections, including:
- Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) infections, which can cause diseases ranging from localized skin infections to serious invasive infections 4
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections, which can be more difficult to treat and may require specialized antibiotic therapy 2, 3
- Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS), which is a rare but severe skin presentation of MSSA infections 4