Skin infection caused by a bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It affects both genders equally and tends to manifest between the age range of 12 to 50 years old.
The infection is transmitted by direct contact of the skin with water contaminated by the bacteria. It is more frequent in warm waters or hot ones where desinfectants such as chlorine disappear quicker. That is why there is a higher contagion probability in spas where there are hot baths. The infection can also be acquired in pools with large crowds and contaminated lakes. Wet clothes such as neoprene suits used of scuba diving or sponges can also be contaminated by pseudomona.
Its manifestations are a partial or generalised eruption of multiple pimple-like lesions that can get infected and get filled with pus. It can also present itching, fever, fatigue as well as headache.
It is diagnosed through an interrogation focused on ruling out risk factors, followed by an exploration of the skin lesions. If the diagnosis leads to doubts a sample of the pus of the lesions can be studied or performed a cutaneous biopsy to observe the bacteria under the microscope.
Usually it is resolved by itself without any treatment in approximately 10 days. Topical corticosteriods to reduce itchiness can be used. In persistent cases, the doctor can prescribe oral antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin) to treat the infection.
If the eruption persists after 15 days, extends itself, is painful, big lumps appear on the skin's surface or is followed by fever and generalised discomfort, please check with your doctor.
- Roriz M, Maruani A, Le Bidre E, et al. Locoregional multiple nodular panniculitis induced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa without septicemia: three cases and focus on predisposing factors. JAMA Dermatol 2014; 150:628.
- Sousa Dominguez A, Perez-Rodríguez MT, Nodar A, et al. Successful treatment of MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa skin and soft-tissue infection with ceftolozane/tazobactam. J Antimicrob Chemother 2017; 72:1262.
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- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Pseudomonas dermatitis/folliculitis associated with pools and hot tubs--Colorado and Maine, 1999-2000. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2000; 49:1087.
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