What is the treatment for scalded skin syndrome (Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome)?

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Last updated: June 7, 2025View editorial policy

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From the FDA Drug Label

Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is indicated for the treatment of serious or severe infections caused by susceptible strains of methicillin-resistant (β-lactam-resistant) staphylococci Vancomycin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is effective in the treatment of staphylococcal endocarditis Its effectiveness has been documented in other infections due to staphylococci, including septicemia, bone infections, lower respiratory tract infections, skin and skin structure infections.

The treatment for Scalded Skin Syndrome (Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome) is vancomycin (IV), as it is effective against staphylococcal skin and skin structure infections 1.

From the Research

The treatment for Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS) primarily involves prompt administration of anti-staphylococcal antibiotics and supportive care, with initial therapy typically including intravenous antibiotics such as nafcillin or oxacillin at 100-150 mg/kg/day divided every 6 hours, or cefazolin at 100 mg/kg/day divided every 8 hours, as recommended by the most recent study 2. The goal of treatment is to reduce morbidity and mortality by eliminating the causative bacteria and managing the toxin-mediated process.

  • Key considerations in treatment include:
    • Prompt initiation of empiric antibiotic therapy with anti-staphylococcal agents, such as nafcillin, oxacillin, or flucloxacillin, as suggested by 3.
    • Use of vancomycin or clindamycin in cases of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or penicillin allergies, with caution against using clindamycin monotherapy due to high resistance rates, as noted in 2.
    • Supportive care, including pain management, fluid and electrolyte replacement, temperature regulation, and meticulous wound care similar to burn management.
    • Avoidance of corticosteroids, which may worsen the condition.
  • Hospitalization is recommended, especially for infants and young children, due to the risk of complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and secondary infections.
  • The condition typically resolves within 5-7 days with appropriate treatment, as the toxin-mediated process stops once the causative bacteria are eliminated, as indicated by 3 and 4.
  • It is essential to note that the treatment approach may vary depending on the severity of the condition, the presence of underlying illnesses, and the patient's response to initial therapy, as discussed in 5 and 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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