Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

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What is staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome?

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome is a response to a infection caused by the staphylococcus bacteria and is characterized by peeling skin. The disease mostly affects infants, young children, and individuals with a depressed immune system or kidney disease. The disease can be life threatening.

What are the symptoms of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome?

The following are the most common symptoms of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. However, each child experiences symptoms differently. The disease usually begins with a fever and redness of the skin. Then, a fluid-filled blister may form. This blister ruptures very easily, leaving an area of moist skin. Other symptoms may include the following:

• crusted infection site, often around the nose or ears

• red, painful areas around infection site

• blistering

• fever

• chills

• weakness

• fluid loss

• top layer of skin begins peeling off in sheets

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

• fever

• chills

• weakness

• fluid loss

In newborns, the lesions are often found in the diaper area or around the umbilical cord. Older children more commonly have the lesions on their arms, legs, and trunk.

The symptoms of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome may resemble other skin conditions. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.

How is staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome diagnosed?

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 for staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome:

Treatment may require hospitalization. Specific treatment for staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome will be determined by your child's physician based on:

• your child's age, overall health, and medical history

• severity of the condition

• your child's tolerance of specific medications, procedures, or therapies

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

• oral antibiotics

• intravenous (IV), penicillin-type antibiotics

Reservoir:    Humans

Source of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome:

Most people carry various strains of staphylococcus bacteria in their noses.  20-30% of the general population are nasal carriers.  Those individuals with active infection (draining lesions i.e. impetigo or purulent discharge) are the most common sources of outbreaks.

Prevention:

• good personal hygiene, with emphasis on handwashing

• do not share toiletries (face cloths, soaps)

• treatment of those with active infection

• ensure good cleaning/sanitizing practices for diapering surfaces, toilets or potties

Sources:

Comer Children’s Hospital, Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome, 2007 [Cited March 30, 2007] Available from URL: http://www.uchicagokidshospital.org/online-library/content=P02546

Heymann, David, Control of Communicable Diseases Manual,18^th Edition, 2004