Definition of Skin Infection – Basic microbiology, parasitology, and immunology; nature, reproduction, growth, and transmission of common microorganisms and parasites in Bangladesh; prevention including universal precaution and immunization, control, sterilization, and disinfection; and specimen collections and examination. Students will have an understanding of common organisms and parasites caused human diseases and acquire knowledge about the prevention and control of those organisms.
Definition of Skin Infection
Skin infections are primarily bacterial attacks on the skin, especially by streptococci and staphylococci. Typically, the surface layer of the skin, the epidermis, is able to resist the invasion of these bacteria, but when it is injured or damaged, germs can enter and find a favorable environment for their development and multiplication. Viruses, parasites, or fungi sometimes called mycoses, may also be responsible for cutaneous manifestations.
Skin infections are primarily bacterial attacks on the skin, especially by streptococci and staphylococci. Viruses, parasites, or fungi sometimes called mycoses, may also be responsible for cutaneous manifestations.
Causes/Types of Skin Infection:
Bacterial skin infections:
- Cellulitis
- Impetigo
- Leprosy
Viral skin infections :
- Shingles (herpes zoster)
- Chickenpox
- Molluscum contagiosum
- Warts
- Measles
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease
Fungal skin infections :
- Athlete’s foot
- Yeast infection
- Ringworms
- Nail fungus
- Oral thrush
- Diaper rash
Parasitic skin infection :
- Lice
- Bedbugs
- Scabies
- Cutaneous larva migrans
Risk Factors of Skin Infection:
Bacterial skin infection:
This occurs when bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin, such as a cut or a scratch. Getting a cut or scratch doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop a skin infection, but it does increase your risk if you have a weakened immune system. A decreased immune system can be the result of an illness or the side effect of medication.
Viral skin infection:
The most common viruses come from one of three groups of viruses: poxvirus, human papillomavirus, and herpes virus.
Fungal infection:
Body chemistry and lifestyle can increase the risk of a fungal infection. For example, you may experience multiple bouts of athlete’s foot if you’re a runner or if you sweat a lot. Fungi often grow in warm, moist environments. Wearing sweaty or wet clothes is a risk factor for skin infections. A break or cut in the skin may. allow bacteria to get into the deeper layers of the skin.
Parasitic skin infection:
Tiny insects or organisms burrowing underneath your skin and laying eggs can cause a parasitic skin infection.
Signs & Symptoms of a severe infection include
- Pus
- Blisters
- Skin sloughing, breakdown
- Dark, necrotic-appearing skin, or skin that becomes discolored and painful
Diagnosis and Tests
- Fungal Tests
- Skin Biopsy
- Skin Rashes and Other Problems
- Wood’s Lamp Examination (Logical Images)
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