Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

Characterized by peeling skin, staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome is a response to a staphylococcal infection.

• The disease usually begins with a fever and redness of the skin, followed by the formation of a fluid-filled blister that ruptures easily. Eventually, the top layer of skin may begin to peel off in sheets.
• Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome mostly affects infants, young children and individuals with a depressed immune system or renal insufficiency.
• The disease can be life threatening.
• Treatment usually requires hospitalization, often in the burn unit of the hospital.