Description An infection of the...
Description
An infection of the skin caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria. It can affect children and adults. A cut in the skin, lymph drainage problems, and skin ulcers increase the risk of infection. 20% of cases involve the face.
Symptoms
Fever and chills. The skin becomes blistered, red and swollen, and is warm to the touch and tender. The edges of the affected skin are raised, and the cheeks and bridge of the nose are commonly involved.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical will be done. The diagnosis is typically made from the appearance of the skin. Rarely a skin biopsy will be done.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Skin biopsy
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
Workup:
A history and physical will be done. The diagnosis is typically made from the appearance of the skin. Rarely a skin biopsy will be done.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Skin biopsy
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
Treatment
Therapy depends on the severity of illness. Some patients can be treated with oral antibiotics and as outpatients while others need close monitoring and intravenous medications. The medications commonly used include: penicillin, cephalexin (Keflex), azithromycin (Z-Pac), or erythromycin.