Blistering skin disease caused by a toxin from a bacterium called staphylococcus aureus which produces exfoliative toxins.
The most frequent symptoms are: diffuse reddening of the skin which is tender and/or painful to the touch, within 24 - 48 hours flaccid blisters form in folds (armpits, elbow, neck) and/or around orifices (mouth, nose, anus) which rupture easily resulting in large erosions leaving a moist, red, shiny surface (like a burn) and fever. There may also be scaling of hands and/or feet, and eye redness.
Diagnosis is based on the clinical appearance of the lesions, for confirmation a smear culture of the lesion surface can be performed.
Treatment is with antibiotics. Depending on the severity of the lesions, hospital admission may be necessary for intravenous antibiotics, fluids and topical treatment of the skin lesions.
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