Skin infections Flashcards
What is Eczema Herpeticum?
Rare and serious skin infection caused by Herpes Simlex Virus Many possible complications so treated as an emergency
How does Eczema Herpeticum present? How would you manage it?
Systemically unwell with extensive crusted papules/blisters/erosions Antivirals (Acyclovir)
What is Necrotising Fasciitis?
Rapidly progressing infection of the deep fascia causing necrosis of subcutaneous tissue
How does Necrotising Fasciitis present?
Severe pain, Erythema, Tachycardia, Crepitus (Subcutaneous Emphysema)
How would you manage Necrotising Fasciitis?
Extensive Surgical Debridement IV Antibiotics
Define Cellulitis
Spreading bacterial infection of the skin involving the deep subcutaneous tissue and dermis
What is the difference between Cellulitis and Erysipelas?
Erysipelas is a more superficial form Erysipelas has more sharply demarcated borders than Cellulitis
Give 5 risk factors for Cellulitis/Erysipelas
IVDU Elderly Venous Insuffiency Lymphoedema Alcoholism
Erysipelas is mainly caused by Strep Pyrogenes, name the causative organisms of Cellulitis.
Staph Aureus Post Op - Strep Pyogenes, Closdtrodium Perfringes (crepitus)
How would you manage Cellulitis/Erysipelas?
Rest, Elevation and Analgesia Uncomplicated - Flucloxacillin 500mg QTS Facial Involvement - Co _ Amoxiclav
What is Staphylococcal Scalded Syndrome?
Scald appearance seen in infancy and early childhood Caused by epidermolytic strain of toxigenic STaph Aureus
How might Staphylococcal Scalded Syndrome present?
Scald appearance followed by large bullae Painful lesions Lesions on buttocks/hands/feet/face
How would you manage Staphylococcal Scalded Syndrome?
Flucloxacillin (or Vancomycin for MRSA) Analgesia Petroleum Jelly
Describe Tinea Corporis and Tinea Cruris
Corporis - Fungal infection of Trunk/Limbs, ittchy circular lesions with raised edges Cruris - same as corporis but in groin and natal cleft
Describe Tinea Manuum and Tinea Pedis
Tinea Manuum - Fungal infection of hands Tinea Pedis - Athlete’s Foot Scaling and fissuring dryness
Describe Tinea Capitus and Tinea Unguium
Capitis - Scalp Ringworm (patches of broken hair, scaling and infammation) Unguium - Fungal infection of the nail causing yellowed discoloration/thickened/crumbly nail
What is Tinea Incognito?
Due to inappropriate treatment of fungal infection with steroid creams Ill defined and less scaly
What is Ptyriasis/ Tinea Versicolor?
Cutaneous infection with the yeast Malassezia Causes scaly brown patches on upper trunk that fail to tan on sun exposure
How would you manage fungal skin infections?
Topical treatment - Terbinafine cream If severe - Oral antifungals such as Itraconazole
Scabies is an itchy rash caused by a parasitic mite, give four risk factors.
Overcrowding Poverty Homelessness Poor Hygiene
How does Scabies present?
Signs and symptoms don’t develop for 3-4 weeks Widespread itching (worse at night and when warm) Papular/Vesicular lesions at burrow sites
How do you investigate Scabies?
Usually just clinical Ink Burrow Test - Ink rubbed over burrow and wiped with an alcohol wipe, ink should track the burrow sites
Describe four management points for Scabies
All close contacts should be treated on the same day to avoid reinfestation Topical Parasiticidal Cream (Permethrin) applied head to toe once a week Wash clothes/towels/bedding Antihistamines for itching
