ID:IOTS - Infectious Disease Insight Of Two Specialists 6. Skin and Soft Tissue Infection
Sep 20, 2021
Dive into the world of skin and soft tissue infections, where common conditions like cellulitis and erysipelas are unraveled. Gain insight into the risks associated with injection practices and the complications that arise from needle reuse. Discover the evolving landscape of immune therapies and the impact of factors like obesity. Learn about key bacterial pathogens responsible for infections and the importance of thorough history-taking. Finally, explore effective antimicrobial treatments to tackle these infections head-on!
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SSTI Main Pathogens And Practical Labeling
- Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are a clinical catch-all mostly caused by Staphylococcus aureus and beta-hemolytic streptococci.
- Distinguishing precise labels (cellulitis vs erysipelas) rarely changes initial management in routine cases.
Layer-Based Presentation Helps Diagnosis
- SSTIs affect distinct skin layers with predictable clinical syndromes: impetigo (epidermis), erysipelas (upper dermis), cellulitis (deeper dermis/subcutis).
- Recognizing layer-specific features helps narrow likely causes and presentations like blisters or well-demarcated margins.
Check And Modify SSTI Risk Factors
- Assess risk factors: skin barrier breaks, immunosuppression, diabetes, liver/renal disease, alcohol, and injecting drug use.
- Modify reversible risks where possible and consider them when choosing empirical therapy and follow-up.