[h=1]Scalded skin syndrome[/h]Ritter disease; Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSS) Last reviewed: December 6, 2011. Scalded skin syndrome is a skin infection in which the skin becomes damaged and sheds. [h=2]Causes, incidence, and risk factors[/h]Scalded skin syndrome is caused by infection with certain strains of Staphylococcus bacteria. The bacteria produce a poison that causes the skin damage. The damage creates blisters as if the skin were scalded. Scalded skin syndrome is found most commonly in infants and children under the age of 5. [h=2]Symptoms[/h] Blisters Fever Large areas of skin peel or fall away (exfoliation or desquamation) Painful skin Redness of the skin (erythema), which spreads to cover most of the body Skin slips off with gentle pressure, leaving wet red areas (Nikolsky's sign) [h=2]Signs and tests[/h]The health care provider will perform a physical exam and look at the skin. The exam may show that the skin slips off when it is rubbed. This is called a positive Nikolsky's sign. Tests may include: Complete blood count (CBC) Cultures of the skin and throat Electrolyte test Skin biopsy (in rare cases) [h=2]Treatment[/h]Antibiotics are given through a vein (intravenously) to help fight the infection. Fluids are also given through a vein to prevent dehydration. Much of the body's fluid is lost through open skin. Moist compresses to the skin may improve comfort. You can apply a moisturizing ointment to keep the skin moist. Healing begins about 10 days after treatment. from :Scalded skin syndrome - PubMed Health
