STAPHYLOCOCCAL SCALDED SKIN SYNDROME (SSSS) – A PAEDIATRIC CASE STUDY
Anson Mathew Joseph*, Clinton Baby, Muhammed Shafi K. and Soorya Soman
ABSTRACT
Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome is a condition which predominantly affects children and causes a spectrum of skin lesions. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is caused by an exfoliative toxin produced by roughly 5% of Staphylococcus aureus. Epidermolytic toxins are produced by the infecting Staphylococcus species; these toxins act at a remote site leading to a red rash and separation of the epidermis beneath the granular cell layer. We present a case of a 2years old infant with SSSS, emphasizing the role of early diagnosis, treatment and discussing the latest developments in the field. The diagnosis of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome was reached on clinical grounds. The patient responded well to the treatment, which included an antibiotic (Ceftizoxime, Linezolid), an analgesic (paracetamol), Metronidazole + Mupirocin ointment, aloe Vera gel and hydration with intravenous fluids. She was discharged after 10days, with almost complete resolution of his skin lesions. Although most cases of SSSS respond well to conventional therapy, it is a potentially fatal condition. Hence, early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and following robust hygiene measures are imperative for its successful management. More efforts are required to develop novel effective therapies for SSSS.
Keywords: Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome, Epidermolytic Toxins, Exfoliations.
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