Abstract
Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome – the importance of early differential diagnosis based on clinical symptoms
- Independent Public Healthcare Centre (SPZOZ) Provincial Specialist Hospital No. 3, Rybnik, Poland
Introduction:
Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS), also referred to as Ritter’s disease or bullous exfoliative dermatitis, results from skin colonization by Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and the inability of the kidneys to neutralize exfoliative toxins produced by certain SA strains. SSSS primarily affects neonates, young children, and adults with conditions such as immunodeficiency, renal failure, immunosuppressive therapy, or coexisting malignancies.
Objective:
To highlight the importance of Nikolsky’s sign as a key indicator in the rapid diagnosis of acute blistering skin conditions in children.
Case report:
We present the case of a 4-year-old child diagnosed with Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, initially misdiagnosed as allergic contact dermatitis.
Conclusions:
Nikolsky’s sign in SSSS can be observed in either in erythematous or clinically unaffected skin, serving as a crucial diagnostic indicator in bullous dermatoses.
Keywords
Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, Staphylococcus aureus, Nikolsky’s sign
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