What is Scalded Skin Syndrome?

When the skin is damaged and starts shedding, it is a skin condition called scalded skin syndrome. Scalded skin syndrome is also known as Ritter von Ritterschein disease. It is from a Staphylococcus infection that produces a poison that creates the skin damage. Different strains of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria are the cause, producing toxins. According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society, the scalded skin syndrome condition is from two exotoxins, epidermolytic toxin A and epidermolytic toxin B.

The skin forms blisters. It is most common in those under the age of five years old.

Symptoms

Signs of this condition include fever, blisters, painful skin, large skin areas that fall away or peel, skin redness, and Nikolsky's sign (where skin slips off with just gentle pressure). Signs come on quickly and the blisters may be over the body's majority in 24 to 72 hours, according to Discovery Fit&Health.

Diagnosis

Other than a positive Nikolsky's sign test, other diagnostic tests that can be ordered are a CBC blood test, skin and throat cultures, skin biopsy, and an electrolyte test.

Treatment

Along with IV fluids and antibiotics, moist compresses are used to help comfort the skin. There is healing usually about ten days after the start of treatment and the prognosis is excellent with a full recovery possible.

Possible complications from scalded skin syndrome include it spreading to a deeper skin infection, poor temperature control, severe bloodstream infection, or problems from the fluid regulation issues such as an electrolyte imbalance or dehydration. It isn't a preventable disorder.

Source: A.D.A.M., Discovery Fit&Health