Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

Abstract

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome(SSSS) is caused by Staphylococcus aureus with release of epidermolytic toxin A and B which leads to blistering and widespread exfoliation of skin. Children below 6 years of age are affected due to inability to excrete the toxins and inadequate antibodies formed against the toxin. The child may present with or without constitutional symptoms, irritability, poor feeding, erythematous rash, blisters over the skin and flexural areas leading to widespread exfoliation of skin. This can lead to electrolyte imbalance, temperature instability and secondary sepsis. Diagnosis is usually clinical and identifying the disease early is important to prevent mortality and morbidity. In severe cases child should be admitted and appropriate antibiotics to be started. If treated early children improve without any sequelae.