We discuss about common skin infections below.
Common Skin Infections
Also known as “ringworm”, Tinea is a common fungal skin infection. It tends to occur on the feet, groins and buttocks. The rash may appear “ring” like. Blisters may occur too. Tinea can be treated with topical and/or oral antifungal medications.
This is a skin infection caused by overgrowth of a yeast organism: Malassaezia Furfur. It is triggered by warm weather and sweat. It leaves brown and white spots on the body. Pityriasis versicolour is treatable with topical antifungal preparations. For severe cases, oral antifungal medications are sometimes required.
Viral warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus. It often causes bumps to develop on the hands or feet. If left untreated, they can spread. Viral warts can be treated with a variety of methods such as: topical medications, cryotherapy(liquid nitrogen), electrosurgery or lasers.
Molluscum is a common infection in children. It is caused by the Pox Virus. They appear as tiny, translucent bumps on the skin. It left untreated, molluscum can spread. It can be treated with a variety of methods such as: topical medications, cryotherapy(liquid nitrogen), or electrosurgery.
Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. This infection causes painful blisters and ulcers to develop on the skin. It commonly affects the lips and the private areas. Transmission of this infection is via skin contact. Once the infection is acquired, the body is unable to eradicate the virus and the virus can “reactivate” periodically, causing repeated episodes of blisters and ulcers. Antiviral medications are available for the treatment of Herpes.
Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus in the body. This virus is also the cause of Chicken Pox. Shingles causes painful blisters to form over a “band-like” distribution on the skin. Antiviral medications are effective in the treatment of Shingles. Seniors and individuals with low immunity are at risk of developing Shingles. Vaccines are available for the prevention of Shingles.
Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection in children. It appears as weepy, crusted red plaques on the skin. It can be quite infectious and children in close contact can transmit the infection. Impetigo can be treated with oral and topical antibiotics.
Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles. It causes small, pimple-like bumps on the skin. Hairy areas (eg the beard region, legs) as well as the upper back are more prone to developing Folliculitis.
Folliculitis can be treated with oral and topical antimicrobial agents.
This is a common infection affecting the upper layers of the skin. It most commonly affects the legs. It causes painful, red patches, sometimes with watery discharge and blisters. Oral or intravenous antibiotics are required to treat this infection.