Condition Lookup
Category:
Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Number of Conditions: 51
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
widespread skin peeling; painful skin lesions; blisters on mucous membranes; fever; skin tenderness; systemic illness symptoms
Root Cause:
Severe immune reaction, often triggered by medications (e.g., antibiotics, anticonvulsants, NSAIDs), leading to widespread epidermal necrosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical observation, skin biopsy showing full-thickness epidermal necrosis.
Treatment:
Discontinuation of the triggering medication, supportive care in an intensive care or burn unit, and possible use of immunosuppressive therapies.
Medications:
IV immunoglobulin (immunomodulator) or cyclosporine (calcineurin inhibitor); corticosteroids are sometimes used, though controversial.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; incidence is 1–2 cases per million annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Use of high-risk medications, genetic predispositions (e.g., HLA-B*1502 allele in certain populations).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Guarded; mortality rate is approximately 25–50%, depending on severity and comorbidities.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary infections, sepsis, multi-organ failure, scarring, and chronic eye complications.
Cellulitis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
red, swollen, and tender skin; fever; warmth in the affected area; pain and lymphadenopathy
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, commonly caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, blood cultures (if systemic symptoms present), and imaging for deeper infections.
Treatment:
Antibiotics, elevation of the affected limb, and wound care.
Medications:
Cephalexin (cephalosporin), clindamycin (lincosamide), or vancomycin (glycopeptide for MRSA).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; affects people of all ages, particularly those with compromised immune systems or diabetes.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Breaks in the skin, diabetes, obesity, lymphedema, and poor circulation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; untreated cellulitis can lead to serious complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation, sepsis, necrotizing fasciitis, or chronic swelling.
Erysipelas
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
bright red, swollen, warm, and painful skin lesion; fever; chills; swollen lymph nodes; sharp raised edges on the affected area
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection, commonly Group A Streptococcus, affecting the upper dermis and superficial lymphatics.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination; culture of exudate or blood cultures in severe cases; imaging if deeper infection is suspected.
Treatment:
Oral or intravenous antibiotics, supportive measures like elevation and analgesics.
Medications:
Penicillin (beta-lactam antibiotic) is first-line; clindamycin (lincosamide) or erythromycin (macrolide) for penicillin-allergic patients.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; particularly among middle-aged and elderly individuals.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Skin injuries, obesity, diabetes, immunosuppression, lymphedema.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent with appropriate antibiotic therapy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence, abscess formation, lymphedema, systemic infection.
Tinea Capitis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
scaly, itchy patches on the scalp; hair breakage leading to bald patches; black dots (broken hairs at scalp level); inflammation or kerion formation
Root Cause:
Fungal infection of the scalp and hair shafts caused by dermatophytes (e.g., Trichophyton and Microsporum species).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, KOH microscopy, fungal culture, or Wood's lamp examination.
Treatment:
Systemic antifungal therapy is essential; topical treatments are supportive.
Medications:
Griseofulvin (fungistatic agent) or terbinafine (allylamine antifungal) are common oral medications.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children; prevalence varies by region.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Overcrowding, poor hygiene, and close contact with infected individuals or animals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; untreated cases may result in permanent hair loss.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Scarring alopecia, secondary bacterial infection, and inflammatory kerion.
Anetoderma
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
localized areas of flaccid skin; soft patches or plaques with reduced elasticity; lesions that may appear wrinkled or saggy; absence of pain or itching
Root Cause:
Destruction or loss of elastic fibers in the dermis, often due to an immune or inflammatory process.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, skin biopsy to confirm loss of elastic tissue, and possibly imaging for underlying systemic conditions.
Treatment:
Treatment focuses on addressing any underlying causes (e.g., infections, autoimmune conditions) and improving the appearance of lesions with procedures like laser therapy or topical treatments.
Medications:
No specific medications to reverse anetoderma, but antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed if an underlying cause such as infection or autoimmune disorder is identified.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; exact prevalence is unknown but is considered more frequent in individuals with autoimmune or systemic conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of inflammatory or infectious skin diseases, autoimmune disorders, genetic predisposition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically benign and not life-threatening but can cause cosmetic concerns; prognosis depends on the management of underlying conditions.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cosmetic disfigurement, psychological distress, and potential association with systemic conditions like lupus or syphilis.
Arcanobacterium Haemolyticum
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
pharyngitis with rash; sore throat; fever; skin lesions resembling scarlet fever; lymphadenopathy
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection caused by Arcanobacterium haemolyticum, often affecting the upper respiratory tract or skin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Throat swabs or skin lesion cultures; confirmed by microbiological identification of A. haemolyticum.
Treatment:
Antibiotics targeting A. haemolyticum, such as macrolides or penicillin derivatives.
Medications:
Erythromycin or clindamycin (macrolide class); penicillin (beta-lactam antibiotics) if the organism is susceptible.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Uncommon; estimated to account for 0.5–2.5% of bacterial pharyngitis cases, especially in adolescents and young adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Adolescence, compromised immune system, close contact with infected individuals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate antibiotic treatment; symptoms usually resolve without complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare but may include post-infectious skin eruptions, abscess formation, or septicemia.
Burn Wound Infections
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
redness and swelling around the burn site; increased pain; foul-smelling discharge; fever; delayed healing; formation of black or brown eschar
Root Cause:
Burn wounds compromise the skin barrier, allowing bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, or fungi to infect the tissue.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination of the wound, wound cultures, blood cultures (if systemic infection is suspected), imaging (to detect deeper infections).
Treatment:
Wound cleaning and debridement, antibiotics (based on culture results), supportive care such as fluid resuscitation, and sometimes surgical intervention.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (broad-spectrum penicillin), vancomycin (glycopeptide antibiotic for MRSA), or fluconazole (antifungal for fungal infections). Anti-inflammatory agents may also be used in severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in patients with severe burns; infection rates are higher in hospitalized burn units.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Large burn area, deep burns, delay in wound care, poor hygiene, and comorbidities like diabetes or immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment, though severe infections can lead to sepsis and mortality.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, multi-organ failure, scar formation, and chronic wound infections.
Buruli Ulcer
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
painless nodule or swelling; progressive skin ulceration; necrosis of tissue; fever (in rare cases)
Root Cause:
Caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, which produces mycolactone toxin leading to tissue destruction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, PCR to detect M. ulcerans, microscopy, or histopathology of biopsy specimens.
Treatment:
Combination antibiotic therapy (e.g., rifampin and clarithromycin), surgical debridement, and wound care.
Medications:
Rifampin (antimycobacterial) and clarithromycin (macrolide antibiotic); in severe cases, streptomycin (aminoglycoside).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Africa.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in endemic areas, exposure to contaminated water sources, and poor wound care.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated early; delays can result in severe deformities or disability.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic wounds, secondary infections, scarring, and functional impairment.
Cat Scratch Disease (Cat Scratch Fever)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
swollen lymph nodes; fever; fatigue; headaches; blister or papule at the site of the scratch or bite
Root Cause:
Infection by Bartonella henselae, transmitted through cat scratches, bites, or flea contact.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serological tests, PCR, and clinical evaluation of symptoms.
Treatment:
Supportive care for mild cases; antibiotics for severe or systemic disease.
Medications:
Azithromycin (macrolide antibiotic) is the first-line treatment; doxycycline or rifampin may be used for severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, most common in children and young adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Cat ownership, exposure to kittens or flea-infested cats.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent in most cases; symptoms typically resolve with or without treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rarely, encephalitis, endocarditis, or Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome.
Cellulitis Empiric Therapy
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
red, swollen, tender skin; warmth in the affected area; fever; pain
Root Cause:
Empiric therapy targets likely bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus before specific cultures are available.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms and risk factor evaluation; cultures may guide therapy later.
Treatment:
Antibiotics covering typical pathogens, adjusted based on clinical response.
Medications:
Cefazolin (beta-lactam antibiotic), clindamycin (lincosamide), or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (sulfonamide) for MRSA coverage.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in emergency and outpatient settings for initial cellulitis management.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Breaks in the skin, prior cellulitis, diabetes, and immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate empiric therapy; delays in treatment may lead to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess, sepsis, and necrotizing infections if initial therapy is ineffective.
Cellulitis Organism-Specific Therapy
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
localized redness and swelling; warmth; tenderness; fever
Root Cause:
Infection by specific pathogens identified through cultures, such as Group A Streptococcus or MRSA.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood and wound cultures, guided by clinical findings.
Treatment:
Tailored antibiotic therapy based on culture results and antibiotic sensitivity.
Medications:
Penicillin for Group A Streptococcus; vancomycin or linezolid (oxazolidinone) for MRSA.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common when culture results confirm specific pathogens in cellulitis.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Wounds, immune compromise, and colonization by resistant bacteria.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with targeted therapy, reducing risk of resistance.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Inadequate coverage may lead to systemic spread, abscess formation, or chronic infection.
Clostridial Gas Gangrene
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
severe pain at infection site; swelling; blisters with clear or bloody fluid; crepitus; fever; tachycardia; shock in severe cases
Root Cause:
Toxins produced by Clostridium perfringens or related species destroy muscle tissue and produce gas.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging (X-ray/CT showing gas in tissues), Gram stain, and cultures.
Treatment:
Surgical debridement, antibiotics, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Medications:
Penicillin (beta-lactam antibiotic) combined with clindamycin (to inhibit toxin production).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically associated with traumatic injuries, surgical wounds, or immunocompromised states.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma, surgical wounds, diabetes, malignancy, and peripheral vascular disease.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor if untreated; high mortality rate without aggressive management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, multi-organ failure, amputations, and death.
Cutaneous Protothecosis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
painless nodules or plaques; ulcerations; chronic non-healing wounds
Root Cause:
Rare infection by Prototheca species (algae-like organisms) in immunocompromised individuals or following trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopy, histopathology, and cultures of biopsy specimens.
Treatment:
Surgical excision and antifungal medications.
Medications:
Amphotericin B (polyene antifungal), itraconazole (azole antifungal).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, primarily in tropical climates and in patients with compromised immunity.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, trauma, and exposure to contaminated water or soil.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; chronic infection can occur if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Disseminated infection, particularly in immunosuppressed individuals.
Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
intensely itchy blisters; burning sensation; symmetrical rash on elbows, knees, back, and scalp
Root Cause:
Autoimmune response to gluten in genetically predisposed individuals, associated with celiac disease.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin biopsy with direct immunofluorescence, serological tests for anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies.
Treatment:
Gluten-free diet and medications to control symptoms.
Medications:
Dapsone (anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial sulfone), gluten-free dietary adherence to prevent recurrence.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; more common in people of European descent and those with celiac disease.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition (HLA-DQ2/DQ8), gluten consumption.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with strict gluten-free diet and dapsone treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of intestinal lymphoma if untreated or poorly managed.
Dermatologic Manifestations of Necrotizing Fasciitis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
severe pain at the site of infection; rapidly spreading erythema; skin discoloration (red, purple, or black); blisters or bullae; fever; chills; fatigue; shock (in severe cases)
Root Cause:
Rapidly progressing infection of the fascia and subcutaneous tissues, often caused by bacteria like Streptococcus pyogenes or mixed organisms, resulting in extensive tissue necrosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical examination, imaging (MRI or CT to evaluate soft-tissue involvement), and surgical exploration; confirmed by microbiological culture and histopathology.
Treatment:
Immediate surgical debridement, broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics, supportive care in an ICU setting, and in some cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Medications:
Treatment typically includes antibiotics such as broad-spectrum penicillins (e.g., piperacillin-tazobactam), carbapenems (e.g., meropenem ), and protein synthesis inhibitors (e.g., clindamycin , to reduce toxin production). Immunoglobulin therapy may be used in toxin-mediated cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but life-threatening; affects approximately 0.4 cases per 100,000 people annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, recent surgery or trauma, immunosuppression, chronic illnesses, and intravenous drug use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable depending on the promptness of treatment; mortality rates range from 20–40% even with aggressive treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, multi-organ failure, amputations, extensive scarring, and disfigurement.
Dermatologic Manifestations of Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
widespread skin redness; fragile blisters; peeling skin resembling burns; fever; irritability; painful skin
Root Cause:
Caused by exfoliative toxins from Staphylococcus aureus, leading to epidermal separation at the granular layer of the skin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation, biopsy of blister edge (showing intraepidermal cleavage), and microbiological testing of blood or other sources for Staphylococcus aureus.
Treatment:
Hospitalization with intravenous antibiotics, supportive care including fluid management, and wound care.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as nafcillin , oxacillin , or vancomycin (for MRSA coverage); clindamycin may also be used to inhibit toxin production.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; most common in neonates and young children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (neonates and children), immunosuppression, renal failure, and colonization with toxin-producing S. aureus.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; most children recover fully within 10 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.
Ecthyma
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
painful, crusted sores; ulcerations with purulent discharge; surrounding redness and inflammation
Root Cause:
A deeper infection of the skin caused by bacterial pathogens like Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, and culture of wound exudate to identify causative bacteria.
Treatment:
Cleaning of lesions, topical and systemic antibiotics, and proper wound care.
Medications:
Oral antibiotics such as cephalexin or dicloxacillin (for MSSA coverage), and clindamycin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for suspected MRSA.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in tropical or developing regions and among children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor hygiene, minor skin trauma, immunosuppression, and warm, humid climates.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent with proper treatment, although scarring may occur in severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cellulitis, deeper soft tissue infections, and post-infectious complications like glomerulonephritis (rare).
Ecthyma Gangrenosum
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
necrotic ulcers with a central black eschar; surrounding erythema; fever; sepsis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa or other gram-negative bacteria; often linked to bloodstream infections in immunocompromised patients.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical features, blood cultures, wound cultures, and imaging for extent of tissue involvement.
Treatment:
Aggressive systemic antibiotics and debridement if necessary.
Medications:
Antipseudomonal agents like piperacillin-tazobactam, ceftazidime , or carbapenems; combination therapy may be needed for severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically occurs in immunocompromised or critically ill patients.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, neutropenia, hematologic malignancies, or prolonged hospitalization.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; high mortality rate in untreated cases or those with underlying sepsis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Disseminated infection, sepsis, and organ failure.
Epidural Infections (Spinal Epidural Abscess) and Subdural Infections (Subdural Empyema)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
fever; back pain; neurological deficits; headache; altered mental status; seizures; weakness or numbness
Root Cause:
Bacterial or fungal infection causing pus accumulation in the epidural or subdural space, often stemming from hematogenous spread, direct trauma, or nearby infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
MRI with gadolinium contrast, CT scan, blood cultures, lumbar puncture (caution due to potential complications).
Treatment:
Surgical drainage or decompression, intravenous antibiotics or antifungals, supportive care for any neurological impairments.
Medications:
Empirical antibiotic therapy typically includes vancomycin (a glycopeptide) combined with ceftriaxone (a third-generation cephalosporin). Antifungal agents like amphotericin B or fluconazole may be used for fungal infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; exact incidence is unclear but occurs more commonly in immunocompromised individuals or those with recent spinal procedures.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes, intravenous drug use, recent spinal surgery or trauma, immunosuppression, localized infections (e.g., abscess or osteomyelitis).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable with early detection and intervention; delayed treatment can result in permanent neurological deficits or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Paralysis, septicemia, chronic pain, recurrent infections, and death if untreated.
Erysipeloid
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
painful, red, violaceous lesions on the hands or fingers; mild fever; joint pain
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, often from handling raw meat or fish.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, lesion swab or biopsy for culture, blood cultures in systemic cases.
Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy and protective measures to prevent recurrence.
Medications:
Penicillin (beta-lactam antibiotic); alternatives include doxycycline (tetracycline ) or ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occupational hazard for butchers, fish handlers, and veterinarians.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational exposure to raw meat, fish, or animal products.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; self-limiting in mild cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Systemic infection, endocarditis.
Erythrasma
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
brownish-red, scaly patches; itching or mild irritation; common in skin folds like armpits, groin, or between toes
Root Cause:
Superficial skin infection caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination with Wood's lamp (coral-red fluorescence), culture, or Gram staining.
Treatment:
Topical or oral antibiotics, good hygiene practices.
Medications:
Topical clindamycin (lincosamide) or erythromycin (macrolide); oral erythromycin or clarithromycin for extensive cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially in warm, humid climates.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes, obesity, excessive sweating, poor hygiene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections.
Eumycetoma (Fungal Mycetoma)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
painless swelling; nodules that may drain pus or grains; progressive destruction of soft tissue, bone, and skin
Root Cause:
Chronic fungal infection caused by various fungi (Madurella, Exophiala) entering through minor trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Histopathology, fungal culture, imaging (MRI or CT).
Treatment:
Antifungal therapy and surgical debridement or amputation in severe cases.
Medications:
Itraconazole (azole antifungal) or terbinafine (allylamine antifungal).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in tropical and subtropical regions; common in agricultural workers.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Barefoot walking, farming, poor hygiene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Guarded; early treatment improves outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe deformity, disability, secondary bacterial infections.
Felon
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
severe pain in the fingertip; redness; swelling; pus accumulation; limited finger movement
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection of the fingertip pulp, commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination; ultrasound or MRI to confirm abscess formation.
Treatment:
Incision and drainage, antibiotics, pain management.
Medications:
Cephalexin (cephalosporin) or clindamycin (lincosamide); MRSA coverage with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or doxycycline if indicated.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially following minor finger injuries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Nail biting, splinters, puncture wounds, diabetes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Osteomyelitis, tendon sheath infection, permanent deformity.
Gas Gangrene (Clostridial Myonecrosis)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
severe pain at the site of infection; swelling; skin discoloration (purple or black); foul-smelling discharge; crepitus (crackling sound under the skin); fever; tachycardia; hypotension
Root Cause:
Caused by the rapid multiplication of Clostridium bacteria in oxygen-deprived tissues, leading to toxin production and tissue necrosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging (X-ray, CT, or MRI for gas in tissues), tissue culture, Gram stain, and blood tests (to assess infection severity).
Treatment:
Immediate surgical debridement, high-dose intravenous antibiotics, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Medications:
Intravenous penicillin G (antibiotic) combined with clindamycin (protein synthesis inhibitor to reduce toxin production). Metronidazole can be used for patients allergic to penicillin.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs mostly in traumatic injuries, surgical wounds, or underlying diseases like diabetes.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Traumatic injuries, surgical wounds, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, immune suppression, intravenous drug use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prompt treatment improves survival, but mortality remains high (up to 25-50%). Untreated cases are almost universally fatal.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, organ failure, amputation, and death.
Gram-Negative Folliculitis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
pustules around hair follicles; pain or tenderness; itching; redness; scarring in chronic cases
Root Cause:
Infection of hair follicles caused by Gram-negative bacteria (e.g., Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, or Proteus) often occurring after prolonged antibiotic treatment for acne.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, bacterial culture from pustules, and Gram stain to identify the causative organism.
Treatment:
Discontinuation of broad-spectrum antibiotics, topical antiseptics, oral isotretinoin for severe cases, or specific antibiotics based on bacterial sensitivity.
Medications:
Oral ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone antibiotic), or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (combination antibiotic).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, typically seen in individuals receiving prolonged antibiotic therapy for acne.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged antibiotic use, oily skin, immunosuppression, poor hygiene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; chronic cases may require isotretinoin for resolution.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic scarring, recurrence, or secondary infections.
Gram-Negative Toe Web Infection
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
macerated skin between toes; foul odor; redness; itching; pain; oozing lesions
Root Cause:
Caused by Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas species or others) in moist and macerated environments, often secondary to fungal infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation, skin culture, and Gram stain to identify the organism.
Treatment:
Topical antiseptics, systemic antibiotics for severe cases, and antifungal therapy if a fungal component is present.
Medications:
Topical silver sulfadiazine (antimicrobial), oral ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone), or gentamicin cream (aminoglycoside antibiotic).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals with athlete's foot or excessive foot moisture.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diabetes, excessive sweating, tight footwear, poor foot hygiene, and fungal infections.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate hygiene and treatment; recurrence possible without preventive measures.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections, cellulitis, or chronic toe web infections.
Granuloma Inguinale (Donovanosis)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
painless genital ulcers; beefy-red lesions; bleeding on contact; destructive ulceration in untreated cases
Root Cause:
Caused by Klebsiella granulomatis, a Gram-negative bacterium, leading to chronic granulomatous genital lesions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Identification of Donovan bodies in tissue smears or biopsies; PCR for confirmation.
Treatment:
Prolonged antibiotic therapy until the lesions completely heal.
Medications:
Oral doxycycline (tetracycline antibiotic) for 3 weeks or azithromycin (macrolide antibiotic) as an alternative.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, endemic in certain tropical and subtropical regions (e.g., India, South Africa, and Papua New Guinea).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sexual activity, living in endemic areas, and poor access to healthcare.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment, but recurrence can occur if treatment is incomplete.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Genital scarring, strictures, secondary infections, or spread to other body areas.
Hand Infections
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
swelling; pain; redness; limited range of motion; pus or discharge; fever in severe cases
Root Cause:
Can result from trauma, puncture wounds, animal bites, or underlying conditions, leading to bacterial colonization and abscess formation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, imaging for deep infections, and bacterial cultures from the infected site.
Treatment:
Incision and drainage of abscesses, antibiotics, and immobilization if needed.
Medications:
Oral amoxicillin-clavulanate (penicillin-class antibiotic with beta-lactamase inhibitor), or clindamycin for penicillin-allergic patients.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; varies based on occupation and exposure to injury or pathogens.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma, immune suppression, poor hygiene, and specific exposures (e.g., animal bites).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely intervention; delayed treatment can lead to severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tendon sheath infections, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, or systemic sepsis.
Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
fever; painful mouth sores; rash with blisters on hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks; irritability in infants and toddlers; loss of appetite
Root Cause:
Viral infection caused by Coxsackievirus or Enterovirus. It spreads through respiratory droplets, saliva, or contact with infected surfaces.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination of characteristic symptoms; rarely requires laboratory confirmation.
Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration, pain relief, and fever management.
Medications:
No specific antiviral treatment; over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen ) are used for symptom relief.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children under five years; outbreaks in daycare centers and schools.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, poor hygiene, and crowded environments.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; symptoms resolve within 7–10 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare but include viral meningitis, encephalitis, or dehydration due to difficulty swallowing.
Human Bites
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
redness; swelling; pain; fever; pus or discharge from the wound; localized warmth; difficulty moving affected area
Root Cause:
Human bites often introduce bacteria into the wound, including common pathogens like Streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, and anaerobic bacteria.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is clinical, based on wound appearance and patient history. Imaging may be used to assess for deeper infections, and wound cultures help identify causative organisms.
Treatment:
Wound cleaning and debridement, empiric antibiotic therapy, and tetanus prophylaxis if indicated. Severe cases may require hospitalization and surgical intervention.
Medications:
Empiric antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate (a beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor), clindamycin (a lincosamide), or metronidazole (a nitroimidazole). Antibiotics should target common skin and oral flora.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Human bites account for approximately 10–20% of all bite wounds treated in emergency settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Alcohol use, interpersonal violence, occupation (e.g., healthcare workers), delayed wound care, poor immune function.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis is good. Delays can lead to complications such as cellulitis, abscess formation, or septicemia.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cellulitis, abscess formation, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, and sepsis.
Impetigo (Empiric Therapy)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
honey-colored crusted lesions; red sores; itching; fluid-filled blisters that rupture easily
Root Cause:
Caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, with superficial infection of the epidermis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinically diagnosed based on appearance. Bacterial cultures are rarely needed unless there is treatment failure.
Treatment:
Topical antibiotics for limited lesions and oral antibiotics for extensive disease or multiple patients in close contact.
Medications:
Mupirocin (topical antibiotic), retapamulin (topical antibiotic), cephalexin (oral beta-lactam), dicloxacillin (oral beta-lactam), clindamycin (oral lincosamide).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children, especially in warm, humid climates. Prevalence peaks in preschool and elementary-aged children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact in schools or sports, poor hygiene, pre-existing skin conditions (e.g., eczema).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; lesions typically resolve in 1–2 weeks. Untreated cases may lead to post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, cellulitis, and systemic infection in rare cases.
Impetigo (Organism-Specific Therapy)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
honey-colored crusted lesions; red sores; itching; fluid-filled blisters that rupture easily
Root Cause:
Direct infection by S. aureus or S. pyogenes. Bacteria release toxins causing epidermal disruption.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Bacterial cultures confirm the causative organism when empiric treatment fails or for outbreak control.
Treatment:
Narrow-spectrum antibiotics based on susceptibility testing.
Medications:
For S. pyogenes
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Same as empiric therapy.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Same as empiric therapy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent if organism-specific therapy is matched.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Same as empiric therapy.
Lobomycosis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Sub-category: Fungal Infections
Symptoms:
painless nodules or plaques; warty lesions; hypopigmented or atrophic scars; ulceration in advanced cases
Root Cause:
Chronic subcutaneous infection caused by Lacazia loboi, a slow-growing fungal pathogen.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, histopathology with fungal staining, and microscopic visualization of yeast cells.
Treatment:
Wide surgical excision is often necessary. Antifungal treatments like itraconazole or amphotericin B may help prevent recurrence but are not consistently effective.
Medications:
Antifungal agents like itraconazole (triazole antifungal) or amphotericin B (polyene antifungal).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; reported primarily in tropical regions of South America.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma in freshwater environments, poor immune function.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; recurrence is common, and untreated cases may progress slowly over years.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Disfigurement, secondary bacterial infections, and difficulty eradicating the infection completely.
Malakoplakia
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
soft plaques or nodules; lesions in skin or mucosa; fever; pain in affected areas
Root Cause:
Defective phagocytosis by macrophages leading to accumulation of bacteria and Michaelis-Gutmann bodies. Often associated with chronic bacterial infections (E. coli or Proteus mirabilis).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Histological examination showing characteristic Michaelis-Gutmann bodies and tissue cultures.
Treatment:
Prolonged antibiotics tailored to bacterial cultures, surgical debridement, and addressing immunosuppression.
Medications:
Ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (folate synthesis inhibitor).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; reported more often in immunocompromised patients.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, chronic infections, diabetes, and malignancy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Fair; recurrences are common without prolonged treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic infection, disfigurement, and secondary complications due to bacterial persistence.
Malassezia (Pityrosporum) Folliculitis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Sub-category: Fungal Infections
Symptoms:
itchy pustules on the chest, back, or face; redness around hair follicles; small bumps that resemble acne
Root Cause:
Overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, which thrives in oily skin or humid conditions, leading to follicular inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical diagnosis, KOH preparation, or fungal culture from affected skin.
Treatment:
Topical antifungal treatments or systemic antifungal medications for severe cases.
Medications:
Ketoconazole (topical or oral azole antifungal), fluconazole (oral azole antifungal), or selenium sulfide (topical).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in adolescents and young adults, particularly in tropical climates.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Oily skin, hot and humid climates, use of oily products, immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate treatment; recurrences may occur without maintenance therapy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infection or scarring if untreated.
Mediterranean Spotted Fever (Boutonneuse Fever)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
fever; rash resembling red spots; eschar at the site of tick bite; headache; muscle pain; nausea
Root Cause:
Caused by Rickettsia conorii, transmitted through the bite of an infected tick.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation, history of tick exposure, and confirmed through serological testing (indirect immunofluorescence or PCR).
Treatment:
Antibiotic therapy, primarily doxycycline.
Medications:
Doxycycline (a tetracycline antibiotic) is the primary treatment. Chloramphenicol can be used as an alternative in some cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs mainly in the Mediterranean region, Africa, and parts of Asia; seasonal prevalence tied to tick activity.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to tick-infested areas, outdoor activities, lack of tick prevention measures.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; untreated cases may result in severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe multi-organ failure, septic shock, myocarditis, and neurological symptoms in untreated cases.
Mycetoma
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Sub-category: Fungal Infections
Symptoms:
painless swelling of the affected area; multiple sinus tracts; drainage of pus or grains; deformity; restricted mobility in severe cases
Root Cause:
Chronic granulomatous infection caused by fungi (eumycetoma) or bacteria (actinomycetoma), often introduced through trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, microscopy of grains, culture, and imaging studies (X-ray, MRI).
Treatment:
Antifungal medications for eumycetoma (e.g., itraconazole) or antibiotics for actinomycetoma; advanced cases may require surgical debridement or amputation.
Medications:
Itraconazole (antifungal for eumycetoma), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (antibiotic for actinomycetoma).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in rural agricultural workers.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma to the skin, especially in endemic areas, lack of protective footwear.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; better outcomes with early treatment, but deformities and disability can occur in advanced cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic disability, severe deformity, secondary bacterial infections, amputation in severe cases.
Orf
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Sub-category: Viral Infections
Symptoms:
painful pustules or nodules on the hands or face; mild fever; swelling of nearby lymph nodes
Root Cause:
Zoonotic infection caused by Orf virus, transmitted from infected sheep or goats.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical appearance and history of animal exposure; PCR or electron microscopy for confirmation.
Treatment:
Supportive care; antiviral medications like cidofovir in severe cases.
Medications:
No specific antiviral; cidofovir may be used off-label in severe infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among livestock handlers; endemic in regions with sheep and goat farming.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Direct contact with infected animals, lack of protective gloves.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Self-limiting in most cases, resolving in 4–6 weeks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare secondary bacterial infections or widespread lesions in immunocompromised patients.
Pitted Keratolysis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
foul odor from the feet; small crater-like pits on the soles; white, macerated skin; mild itching or burning
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection caused by Kytococcus sedentarius, Dermatophilus congolensis, or other corynebacteria due to excessive moisture and sweat retention in footwear.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination based on characteristic pits and odor; occasionally, bacterial culture or Wood's lamp examination may be used.
Treatment:
Keeping feet dry, antibacterial creams or solutions, and proper hygiene practices.
Medications:
Topical antibiotics such as clindamycin (lincosamide class), erythromycin (macrolide class), or mupirocin (antibacterial). Occasionally benzoyl peroxide (antibacterial and keratolytic agent) is used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among individuals in hot, humid climates and those wearing occlusive footwear for prolonged periods.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), poor foot hygiene, prolonged use of occlusive footwear.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate treatment; resolves within weeks to months if hygiene and dryness are maintained.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare but may include secondary bacterial infections or recurrent episodes if predisposing factors persist.
Pseudomonas Folliculitis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
red, itchy, or tender pustules; rash primarily on water-exposed areas; low-grade fever (rare); burning sensation
Root Cause:
Infection of hair follicles caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, often from contaminated water in hot tubs, pools, or spas.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination; confirmed by bacterial culture of the lesions if necessary.
Treatment:
Resolves spontaneously in mild cases; topical or systemic antibiotics in severe or persistent cases.
Medications:
Ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone class) for systemic infection; acetic acid or polymyxin B (antibacterial solutions) for topical treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among individuals frequently using improperly maintained hot tubs or pools.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to contaminated water, compromised skin barrier, shaving or waxing.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; most cases resolve without complications in 7–14 days.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rarely, abscess formation or systemic infection in immunocompromised individuals.
Tinea Barbae
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
red, scaly, or inflamed patches on the beard or facial area; hair loss in the affected area; pustules or abscess formation; itching or burning sensation
Root Cause:
Fungal infection caused by dermatophytes (Trichophyton or Microsporum species) affecting the hair follicles in the beard area.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, fungal culture, or microscopy with potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation.
Treatment:
Systemic antifungal medications are the main treatment, often combined with topical antifungal agents.
Medications:
Oral antifungals like terbinafine (allylamine class) or itraconazole (triazole antifungal class) are prescribed. Topical antifungals (e.g., clotrimazole , miconazole ) may be adjunctive.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively uncommon; more prevalent in rural areas with exposure to infected animals.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected animals, poor hygiene, and warm, humid environments.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate treatment; resolves without scarring in most cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections, scarring, or chronic inflammation if untreated.
Tinea Corporis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
ring-shaped, red, scaly patches on the skin; itching; central clearing with an active, raised border
Root Cause:
Superficial fungal infection of the skin caused by dermatophytes (Trichophyton or Microsporum species).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, KOH microscopy, or fungal culture.
Treatment:
Topical or systemic antifungal therapy.
Medications:
Topical antifungals like clotrimazole (imidazole class) or terbinafine (allylamine class); oral antifungals such as fluconazole (triazole antifungal) may be used for extensive cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common worldwide; more prevalent in warm, humid climates.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Warm climates, close contact with infected individuals, poor hygiene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; resolves within weeks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic infection, secondary bacterial infections.
Tinea Cruris
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
itchy, red, scaly patches in the groin area; raised edges with central clearing; skin irritation and burning sensation
Root Cause:
Fungal infection of the groin area caused by dermatophytes (commonly Trichophyton rubrum).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, KOH microscopy, or fungal culture.
Treatment:
Topical antifungal medications; oral antifungals for severe or recurrent cases.
Medications:
Topical clotrimazole (imidazole) or terbinafine (allylamine); oral fluconazole or itraconazole for severe infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among adults; higher prevalence in athletes and individuals in humid environments.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Excessive sweating, obesity, tight clothing, warm climates.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Very good with treatment; recurrence is possible without preventive measures.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Spread to adjacent areas, secondary bacterial infections.
Tinea in Emergency Medicine
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
localized skin scaling; itching; erythematous or hyperpigmented patches
Root Cause:
Acute or chronic fungal infection of the skin caused by dermatophytes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment, microscopy (KOH prep), and culture.
Treatment:
Depends on the type and severity; topical or systemic antifungal therapy.
Medications:
Terbinafine or clotrimazole for topical use; oral itraconazole or griseofulvin for systemic treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Widespread across different age groups; incidence depends on region and hygiene standards.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor hygiene, warm environments, immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; chronicity is possible without adherence.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Disseminated infection in immunocompromised individuals.
Tinea Nigra
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
dark brown to black macules on palms or soles; non-scaly lesions; asymptomatic
Root Cause:
Superficial fungal infection caused by Hortaea werneckii.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, KOH microscopy, and fungal culture.
Treatment:
Topical antifungal agents.
Medications:
Topical miconazole (imidazole class) or terbinafine (allylamine class).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; more common in tropical and subtropical regions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Warm, humid environments; exposure to contaminated soil or vegetation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; responds well to topical therapy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
None reported with proper treatment.
Tinea Pedis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
itchy, scaly skin between toes; redness; fissures or peeling; blisters on the feet
Root Cause:
Fungal infection of the feet caused by dermatophytes, commonly Trichophyton rubrum.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical observation, KOH microscopy, or culture.
Treatment:
Topical antifungal agents for mild cases; oral therapy for severe infections.
Medications:
Topical terbinafine or clotrimazole ; oral itraconazole or fluconazole for extensive infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common worldwide; affects up to 10% of the population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Use of occlusive footwear, sweating, communal showers or pools.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; recurrence is possible.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections, chronicity.
Tinea Versicolor
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
hypopigmented or hyperpigmented patches on the trunk and arms; mild scaling; itching
Root Cause:
Superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia species.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, KOH microscopy, or Wood's lamp test.
Treatment:
Topical or systemic antifungal therapy.
Medications:
Topical ketoconazole (imidazole) or selenium sulfide lotion; oral itraconazole for extensive cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in tropical regions; affects all age groups.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Oily skin, humid climates, immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; pigmentation changes may persist temporarily.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrence is common.
Transient Neonatal Pustular Melanosis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
pustules on the skin; hyperpigmented macules after pustules rupture; typically non-itchy and non-tender
Root Cause:
Benign neonatal skin condition of unknown etiology, often seen in full-term infants.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, cytology of pustular fluid showing neutrophils without bacteria.
Treatment:
No treatment required; self-resolving condition.
Medications:
None needed.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively common; varies by ethnic group (higher prevalence in Black neonates).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
None specific; normal physiological condition.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent; resolves without intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
None.
Trichomycosis Axillaris
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
yellow, black, or red nodules on hair shafts in the axilla; foul odor; excessive sweating
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection of the hair shaft caused by Corynebacterium species.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical appearance, microscopic examination of hair shafts.
Treatment:
Good hygiene, shaving the affected area, and topical antibacterial agents.
Medications:
Topical clindamycin (lincosamide antibiotic) or benzoyl peroxide.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in warm, humid climates.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor hygiene, hyperhidrosis, warm climates.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment and hygiene measures.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent odor or recurrence if untreated.
Trichomycosis Pubis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
colored concretions (yellow, black, or red) on pubic hair; foul odor; sweat-stained areas
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection of pubic hair by Corynebacterium species.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual inspection and microscopic examination.
Treatment:
Shaving the affected area and using topical antibacterial agents.
Medications:
Topical clindamycin or benzoyl peroxide (antibacterial agents).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than axillary form; associated with warm climates and hygiene practices.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor hygiene, hyperhidrosis, tight clothing.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Very good with treatment; recurrence possible without proper hygiene.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Persistent discomfort or odor.
Wound Infection
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
redness, swelling, and warmth around the wound; pain; purulent discharge; fever or systemic symptoms in severe cases
Root Cause:
Bacterial contamination of a wound leading to inflammation and potential tissue damage; common pathogens include Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, wound culture, blood tests in severe cases.
Treatment:
Cleaning and debridement of the wound, antimicrobial therapy as needed.
Medications:
Antibiotics like amoxicillin-clavulanate (beta-lactam class) or clindamycin (lincosamide class). Severe infections may require vancomycin or piperacillin-tazobactam.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; varies with wound type and hygiene.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor wound care, immunosuppression, diabetes, contaminated wounds.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early intervention; delayed treatment may lead to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cellulitis, abscess formation, sepsis, or necrotizing fasciitis.