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What's New | Current Newsletter | Newsletter Archive | Newsletter Sign Up Current NewsletterUNDERSTANDING BACTERIAL SKIN INFECTIONS Did you know that your skin is covered with bacteria? Bacteria such as some Staphylococcus species, Corynebacterium spp., Brevibacterium spp and Acinetobacter live on normal skin and cause no harm. The skin is actually the body's first barrier against infection. Why a Skin Infection Occurs A break in the skin allows pathogenic bacteria (the kind that are capable of causing disease) to invade the local tissue. This stimulates an inflammatory response. Signs of Infection Skin changes that include redness, swelling, pain, and heat. Common Kinds of Bacterial Skin Infections FOLLICULITIS: This is an infection of one or more hair follicles. Bacteria enters follicles that are damaged. This damage is caused by friction, such as from shaving or rough clothing. SUPERFICIAL CELLULITIS: This infection often affects the skin of the feet and lower legs. It may occur in other skin areas as well. INFECTED DERMATITIS: Dermatitis is and inflammation of the skin. A dermatitis can compromise the skins ability to keep out harmful bacteria. Scratching itchy areas creates an entry site for bacteria to infect the outer layers of the skin. These infections are treated with antibiotic medications. Topical and/or oral antibiotics may be used. Once you start treatment for a skin infection, call your doctor if:
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