Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is an illness characterised by red blistering skin that looks like a burn or scald, hence its name staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is an illness caused by an exfoliative exotoxin produced by certain strains of S. aureus. The primary infection (of the nose, conjunctiva, or umbilicus) is often clinically inapparent. SSSS usually occurs in children.

Causes

Scalded skin syndrome is caused by infection with certain strains of bacteria in the Staphylococcus family. During the infection, the staphylococci produce a poison that is responsible for the skin damage. Onset of the illness may include  fever and skin tenderness.

Symptoms

• Rash
• Fever
• Malaise
• Irritability

Signs

• Diffuse, tender, red rash, sometimes with a sandpaper texture initially
• Bullae and vesicles may appear over the course of a few days.
• Exfoliation of large sheets of epidermis, with a positive Nikolsky's sign (the skin sloughs easily if the examiner applies lateral pressure to the area) may follow.

Diagnosed of Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

In addition to a medical history and physical examination of your child, the diagnosis may be confirmed with a biopsy (taking a tissue sample to be examined under a microscope) and bacterial culture.

Treatment

Treatment involves careful attention to avoid the development of dehydration. A variety of lotions and creams are available to apply to areas where the epidermis has peeled away. This both soothes the sensitive areas, and protects against drying and further moisture loss.

Prevention

The disorder may not be preventable. Prompt treatment of any staphylococcus infection may be helpful and as always, good hygiene can prevent the passage of the causative bacteria between people.