Skin Infections: Impetigo and Erysipelas

Skin Infections

Impetigo

• Characterized by fragile, pinhead-sized vesicles or pustules that rupture early, forming rapidly enlarging and spreading erosions with bright yellow crusts.
• Spreads infection limited to the epidermis, presenting as a bullous, crusted, or pustular eruption of the skin.
• Lesions may weep a serous fluid.

Dermis - Erysipelas

• A contagious disease of skin and subcutaneous tissue marked by redness and swelling, accompanied by vesicular and bullous lesions.
• Typically occurs on the cheek, caused by group A streptococci.
• Seen primarily in children and the elderly.
• Characteristics: blocking of dermal lymphatics, well-defined, spreading erythematous inflammation on the face, legs, or feet, accompanied by pain and fever.

Hair Follicles

• Folliculitis is a group of skin conditions characterized by inflamed hair follicles.
• Results in a tender red spot, often with a surface pustule.
• Can affect anywhere with hair, including chest, back, arms, and legs.
• Minor infection of hair follicles, usually caused by S. aureus.
• Often associated with areas of friction and sweat gland activity, seen most frequently on the neck, face, and axillae.
• Infection with P. aeruginosa can occur after exposure to inadequately chlorinated water in swimming pools or hot tubs.