Bacterial skin infections

Medical terms

Paronychia, cellulitis, impetigo, lyme disease, scarlet fever, folliculitis

Common terms

Boils, abscess, skin infections, carbuncles, school sores

Overview

Many bacteria live on normal skin and cause no harm. Some bacteria however invade normal skin, broken skin or wounds causing infection. These can range from an easily treatable infection to a life-threatening skin condition.

Symptoms and signs

Symptoms can range from swelling, tenderness, bruising, blisters, abscesses, crusting and rash. Bacterial skin infections can be confused with other skin conditions and so tests may be needed to make the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on effective diagnosis and so a consultation with a Dermatologist is necessary. An Acne Dermatologist specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of severe acne and adult acne.

• See also Folliculitis

A young girl with Scarlet Fever

Bacterial skin infections can be confused with other skin conditions and so tests may be required as part of a diagnosis.

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to be used for self-diagnosis and treatment. An accurate diagnosis can only be determined through a face to face consultation with a qualified Dermatologist.

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