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Staph scalded skin syndrome is a skin infection caused by staph bacteria, characterized by painful, blistered skin that separates into layers. It most often affects infants, young children, and those with compromised immunity. Treatment involves antibiotics and hospitalization if skin loss has begun. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid complications.
Staph scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a skin condition that results from an infection caused by a strain of the staph bacterium. The condition is characterized by red, painful, sometimes blistered skin that separates into layers, appearing as if it has been burned. This syndrome, also known as Ritter’s disease, or simply scalded skin syndrome, most often affects infants, young children, and individuals with compromised immunity.
Staph scalded skin syndrome can start out looking similar to other skin infections, such as impetigo. Other signs include fever, chills, and areas where the skin is painfully irritated or blistered. During infection, staph bacteria produce a toxin that infiltrates the skin, causing one layer of skin to peel off from the next. Once infected, the top layer of skin can peel off in large sheets with even a gentle touch.
Treatment begins with identification. Depending on how early SSS is caught, healing may begin in five to seven days after starting treatment with an antibiotic that is effective against staphylococcal bacteria. However, if skin loss has begun, hospitalization may be required. An intravenous drip can be given to restore fluid and electrolyte balances that are lost with raw layers of skin exposed. In addition, it may be necessary to treat the skin with compresses and ointments.
The prognosis for staph scalded skin syndrome is excellent, with most people recovering with few or no complications. If left untreated, staph scalded skin syndrome can lead to a deeper infection of the skin and septicemia, a serious infection of the bloodstream.
There is no guaranteed way to avoid staph scalded skin syndrome, but early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve the duration and severity of the condition. Always keep babies and small children properly washed and dried before dressing.
Any child who shows widespread redness, inflammation, and skin irritation should be evaluated by a doctor, especially if the child is in a day care or other facility known to have had a staph infection. If the condition has progressed to fever and skin loss, you may need to go to the emergency room to avoid dehydration and further infection.
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