Streptoderma in children: from symptoms to treatment

Many children suffer from the common skin infection known as streptoderma. It is brought on by bacteria and typically manifests as skin sores or red areas. Parents may find it concerning, but if detected early enough, the illness is effectively treatable.

The first step in treating streptoderma is to comprehend the symptoms. These can vary in size from tiny red spots to bigger blisters that turn into crusts over time. In order to stop the infection from spreading, it’s critical to recognize these symptoms and consult a doctor.

Antibiotics are usually used as part of a treatment plan, either topically or orally. Recuperation depends heavily on keeping the affected area dry and clean in addition to taking medication. The majority of kids recover quickly and without any issues when given the proper care.

Aspect	Description
What is Streptoderma?	A bacterial skin infection caused by streptococci, often seen in young children.
Common Symptoms	Red spots or blisters that turn into crusty sores, mostly on the face, arms, or legs.
How it Spreads	Through close contact or sharing personal items like towels or toys.
Treatment	Usually treated with topical antibiotics or, in severe cases, oral antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
Prevention	Good hygiene, regular hand washing, and avoiding contact with infected skin can help prevent spreading.

About the disease

Infectious skin diseases are referred to as streptoderma. The microflora of streptococci is the cause. Streptococci are parasites that are found everywhere. The majority of them reside in the large intestine, the mouth, the nose, and the digestive tract. Streptococci have a diameter of approximately one micron. They procreate rapidly. Toxins produced by bacteria during reproduction are what lead to the disease, which manifests as purulent, rounded patches on the skin. The diameter of a streptoderma focus can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters.

• contagious impetigo;
• bullous impetigo;
• angular stomatitis;
• simple lichen;
• tourniole;
• streptococcal diaper rash.

Since people with streptoderma do not always seek medical attention for it, precise statistics on the disease’s prevalence are unknown. Since many people choose to treat mild forms on their own, no patient data is recorded anywhere.

Streptococci are known to "love" women and children more than other animals. WHO estimates indicate that 60% of children and adolescents with dermatological issues have streptoderma.

How does infection occur?

There is only one answer to the question of whether or not streptoderma is contagious: it is highly contagious. It propagates via a process known as contact-household.

Through sharing toys, interacting through touch, and utilizing common items like dishes, towels, and objects, a child can contract an infection from other kids and adults.

For this reason, the illness typically strikes a whole class of kids at once, whether they are in a kindergarten, school, sanatorium, or children’s health camp. The same method of infection affects adults.

It should be known that streptococcus requires ideal conditions to grow, including a temperature of roughly 37 degrees Celsius and particular humidity. The human body is one such habitat. The microbe needs to penetrate the skin’s outer layer in order to enter an environment that is conducive to reproduction. Any injury, scrape, or abrasion on the child’s skin facilitates the task at hand. The virus spreads extremely fast.

The disease typically peaks in the spring and summer, during the warm season. Sweating is more common during these seasons, which raises the possibility of microtrauma to the epidermis.

Since the incubation period varies greatly from person to person, it is challenging to pinpoint a precise duration. It takes seven to ten days for clinical symptoms of streptococcus infection to manifest after the bacterium has caused skin damage (when characteristic formations appear on the skin).

As long as a child has foci of streptococcal infection on his skin, he is still contagious.

Most often, when a child or adolescent has certain concurrent skin issues, one of the group of streptococcal diseases develops:

• pediculosis;
• dermatitis and dermatoses;
• scabies;
• allergy;
• teenage acne;
• decreased immunity;
• anemia;
• chronic illnesses;
• parasitic infections;
• violation of hygiene rules.

Although the disease affects older children and babies almost equally frequently, it affects babies more severely and for a longer period of time. These are immunity’s aging-related characteristics. Sometimes it is impossible to pinpoint the reasons behind an occurrence.

Apart from the contact route, streptococcus can also spread through the air, though this is not a common way for transmission.

Symptoms and signs

Since there are no symptoms of the disease during the incubation period, pinpointing the exact moment of infection is typically quite challenging. Streptococcal formations, the first stage of the illness, don’t show up for another 7–10 days. Each appears to be a rounded piece of pinkish-colored material. This element does not necessarily need to have the proper oval or round outlines; in fact, the spots frequently lack smooth edges.

They start to transform into purulent-vesicular elements after a few days. To differentiate streptoderma from allergic dermatitis or herpes, pus must be present. There are several distinct clinical manifestations of streptoderma depending on how deeply the microbes have penetrated: superficial forms of the disease (like impetigo) cause bubbles to burst quickly and leave no traces, scars, or scars after healing; deep forms affect not only the epidermis but also the skin’s germ layer, which may lead to the formation of unsightly skin defects in the future.

In adulthood, the illness is hardly ever linked to any significant health-related complaints. However, the symptoms of streptoderma in children are more obvious: there may be mild itching in the affected areas as well as dry skin where the lesion is located. The child’s temperature may increase to 37.0–37.7 degrees and there may be an increase in lymph nodes if the lesions are extensive.

Leg streptoderma is frequently localized, but it can quickly spread throughout the body to any other part of the body as well. Separate components may combine to create even larger damage regions. There is a good chance that the bacterial infection will not spread if at first it only affects the skin folds, such as those on the hands, buttocks, or elbow bends.

You should know that hair and nails are never susceptible to streptoderma, even if the lesion is quite large.

If the skin in question is frequently injured or rubbed, the condition may progress to a chronic state. There are specific requirements for chronic streptoderma. This type of the illness typically manifests in conjunction with diabetes, kidney disease, any chronic conditions affecting children, and genetic disorders. In this instance, the illness will manifest and subside in waves. The skin in the affected area becomes dry, rough, and peels in between attacks. Its color may also slightly deviate from normal.

Streptoderma is initially always localized, and parents’ job is to do everything within their power to stop the infection from spreading to healthy epidermis.

Water can be hazardous. The spots can spread throughout the body due to contact with it. This is particularly evident on the cheek, chin, lips, and nose, which are the initial sites of streptococcal rashes.

A slight swelling of the epidermis appears between the affected old elements and new ones. After a few hours, after washing, new foci of infection form on the hands and on the head (on the nose, on the eyelid, etc.).

How to recognize the type of disease?

It is simple to identify the type and presence of a streptococcal infection based on distinctive symptoms.

The following are symptoms of the most prevalent types of this bacterial illness:

Streptococcal impetigo

This is the most prevalent type of the illness, which most often appears as exposed body parts such as the hands, feet, nose, or face. This is superficial streptoderma, which almost never has an adverse effect on how the skin looks on the outside.

The disease first appears as a tiny bubble with hazy contents, and the skin around it quickly becomes red. It opens up quickly, forming a yellowish-brown crust that can be dry or wet. The skin underneath has a brighter color when the crust falls off; this hyperpigmentation, or bluish-pink color, lasts for a while before completely disappearing.

The likelihood that the illness won’t spread increases with the timing of treatment. The course of treatment may last several weeks. The primary streptococcal element, known as vesicle-phlyctena, first appears and the child remains contagious for 28 days.

Slit impetigo (angular cheilitis)

It is nearly impossible to confuse this type of streptoderma with another because it always appears in the mouth corner; descriptions of it appearing in the eye corner or at the nose’s wings are rare. Phlyctenas in this instance are small and sluggish; the vesicle breaks very quickly, leaving a wound-crack that resembles a slit and has a crust that is yellowish. It peels off, revealing the wound once more. The child will frequently complain of pain during eating, smiling, talking, salivation, and itching in the affected area as a result of the disease. Chronic angular cheilitis is a common occurrence.

Such streptoderma rarely spreads to other locations from the site of initial occurrence. Treatment for it is effective, but the addition of a fungal infection can make matters worse, particularly if there is oral candidiasis or caries.

Bullous impetigo

This type of infectious disease typically affects the hands, knees, and feet and has a severe course. The child initially gets big blisters in the designated areas that are filled with pus and serous fluid. They are soft, easily torn, and incredibly flabby. After the rupture, real erosions rather than crusts with peeling form. In children, this entire process frequently takes place against the backdrop of rising body temperature and expanding local lymph nodes.

Outward manifestations of general intoxication are not ruled out if the infection starts in a baby (infant, newborn). Concomitant clinical signs of deterioration in the overall condition are more likely in younger children.

Simple lichen

This type affects children more frequently than it does adults. The disease typically first manifests in children’s groups in the fall and spring. The areas of the face around the mouth, chin, cheeks, arms, and, least frequently, legs are where lichen most frequently appears. Since there are no liquid or pus-filled bubbles in this instance, lichen is frequently referred to as dry streptoderma.

When it shows up, it looks like white or pinkish lesions with defined borders. Grayscale scales cover the lesion’s interior. It is a scratchy, itchy rash.

The child’s simple lichen symptoms lessen but do not entirely disappear if they are exposed to the sun for a while.

The skin appears mottled and the tan itself is unevenly distributed; the skin stays lighter in the lesion.

Tourniole

Impetigo of the nail folds is the alternate term for this kind of streptoderma. In children, it is uncommon. First, the skin in the vicinity of the nail plate develops a blister-phlycten. It hurts a lot to have this condition. Within two to three days, the serous fluid inside the blister becomes purulent. People are also more familiar with the illness by its other name, superficial panaritium.

Erosion or ulceration frequently follows, with the potential loss of the nail plate. This type of streptococcal infection causes fever and possible enlargement of the lymph nodes in the affected area in young children.

Streptococcal diaper rash

Babies are most commonly afflicted by this type of illness. Skin that already exhibits symptoms of atopic dermatitis or diaper rash is affected by streptococcus. This type of illness typically shows up in the groin, under the arms, behind the ears, and in the ears themselves. Infections with streptococcus can also occur on skin that is frequently in contact with friction, such as the inner thighs of women under the mammary glands and the buttocks of children.

Serous fluid appears in several tiny blisters that quickly meld together. They hurt and have the potential to scratch. On the skin, erosions and cracks appear after they open. If appropriate care is not received and hygiene regulations are broken, a chronic illness with recurrent flare-ups may develop.

Diagnostics

Even using visual indicators, diagnosing streptoderma is not difficult. However, the diagnosis needs to be verified in any case, so parents should definitely see a pediatrician if they notice anything on their child’s skin that looks like an infectious skin disease. Instead of going to a typical clinic, it is preferable to visit an infectious diseases hospital where streptoderma can be swiftly confirmed or denied in a lab setting.

As soon as the disease begins, it becomes possible to establish the presence of streptococcus using a microscopic examination of a bacteriological culture of a scraping. This analysis is carried out first of all. Streptococci are found in the scraping with the appropriate diagnosis. It is important to do this analysis before starting treatment, and therefore any self-medication at home is highly undesirable. If the mother tried to treat the disease in the child on her own, and then went to the doctor, the scraping may be negative, while streptoderma will actually take place. But even in this case, an experienced doctor will distinguish this disease from other dermatological ailments by the totality of clinical manifestations.

It can be distinguished from pityriasis versicolor, dermatitis, pyoderma, and urticaria by a specialist. At home, this isn’t always effective. Additionally, fungal infections that are complications of streptococcal infections can be identified in a hospital or clinic.

It is highly advised to perform a thorough examination on a child who has experienced two or more episodes of streptoderma detection within the previous year. This includes assessing the child’s gastrointestinal tract, performing an ultrasound scan of the abdominal organs, testing for helminth eggs, performing a laboratory blood test for thyroid hormones and sugar, as well as performing general blood and urine tests.

Treatment

Local therapy is typically recommended if the child’s immunity is good (no HIV, severe autoimmune diseases), and the disease foci are small and not spread widely. Vitamins and UV therapy are advised in addition to these direct treatment methods for the affected areas.

While the parents will treat the child according to the doctor"s recommendations, the child should not be bathed. If it is necessary to carry out hygiene procedures, healthy skin can be wiped with a damp swab, trying in no case to touch the affected areas. For such rubbing, instead of water, you can use a weak decoction of chamomile. During treatment, the child should not wear clothes made of synthetic fabrics, since they cause sweating, and sweating during this period increases the likelihood of the spread of foci of infection. To prevent this, not only clothes made of natural fabrics in which the skin will breathe well are needed, but also an optimal air temperature in the room. In an apartment where it is hot, the child will sweat one way or another.

The child needs his own plate, cup, linens, and towels from the moment of illness. He should avoid playing with other kids, especially when it involves sharing the same items and toys.

Ten days are quarantined for streptoderma. As a result, once a child has been identified, it is imperative to notify the child’s kindergarten or school of this. Anyone who interacted with the child must be informed that they are under a ten-day quarantine.

For the young person A sparing diet free of allergens is advised during treatment. Dishes that are fatty and sharp should also be avoided. During this time, food allergies may cause the disease’s weight and exudate to increase.

It is advised to process lesions multiple times a day. If blisters remain unopened, they are carefully pricked open using a sterile needle and dyed with aniline. The well-known brilliant green (brilliant green solution), melitene blue, and "Fukortsin" are appropriate for these uses. Following such care, the inflammatory site is covered with a clean, dry bandage and a disinfecting ointment.

In the event that the child has developed hard crusts, you should never attempt to manually separate them as this may cause severe eczema. Salicylic petroleum jelly is used to lubricate the crusts, which can be easily removed without any issues during the subsequent treatment after about a day.

Antibiotic therapy is used if sluggish and long-lasting streptoderma is present. Usually, the duration is between six and seven days.

Children often get streptoderma, a bacterial skin infection that can cause blisters and sores that spread quickly. It’s important to recognize its signs, which include red areas and crusted lesions, in order to receive early treatment, which frequently entails antibiotics and proper hygiene. Taking quick action keeps kids comfortable and healthy by ensuring quicker healing and preventing complications.

Drugs for therapy

If everything is done correctly, children with streptoderma can be treated fairly quickly and effectively. Parents frequently make the mistake of quitting treatment as soon as they see results. The doctor’s recommended course of treatment must be adhered to strictly.

As previously mentioned, the following medications are used for local treatment.

• Brilliant green solution – a popular antiseptic, which is produced not only in liquid form, but also in a more convenient form – in the form of a pencil. It has not only an effect against bacteria, but also partially copes with some fungi, and therefore can be used for local treatment even with complicated streptoderma. It is recommended to treat the lesion twice a day.
• "Fukortsin" – the second name is "Kostellani liquid", has a bright crimson color. The composition is effective against streptococci and some types of fungi. Skin treatment is carried out from 2 to 4 times a day. Before applying the ointment, it is recommended to let the crimson liquid dry completely on the skin.
• Methylene blue, or simply blueing. This dye is used to treat affected areas of the skin up to 2 times a day. An alcohol solution of aniline dye is available at any pharmacy.

Avoid using multiple dyes at once; this won’t make the treatment any more effective. Pick just one product, and don’t forget to take your medication on time.

Large lesions may also require the use of miramistin and chlorhexidine for initial cleaning prior to treatment.

Ointments that are frequently recommended for children with streptoderma.

• Ichthyol – an antiseptic drug that is especially effective for streptococcal eczema. Apply 2-3 times a day.
• Tetracycline – a popular antibacterial drug for the treatment of skin diseases and eye diseases. For the treatment of streptoderma, use an ointment with a tetracycline concentration of 3%. It should be used on the affected area after treatment with aniline dyes 1-2 times a day.
• Zinc. The main active ingredient is zinc oxide, which has a pronounced antiseptic and drying effect. There are other drugs based on this substance, for example, "Tsindol". Especially effective for weeping eczema.
• Sulfur ointment is a popular antiseptic that is active against most pathogens. Apply to a pre-prepared surface 1-2 times a day.

Antihistamines like Claritin and Suprastin are also prescribed for the duration of treatment if the child is prone to allergies. Depending on the patient’s age, the doctor prescribes the precise dosage and quantity of doses per day. In the event that systemic antibiotics are advised, Amoxiclav and Flemoxin Solutab are typically selected. Azithromycin or Sumamed are advised if the child is resistant to the penicillin class of antibiotics for whatever reason. In addition, probiotics and prebiotics may be recommended to preserve intestinal health while taking antibiotics.

The doctor may suggest therapy to maintain immunity in children with weakened immunity (e.g., a child who had an acute respiratory viral infection or severe flu shortly before developing streptoderma, or who has chronic diseases with frequent relapses). It also contains "Likopid" tablets in various dosages (1.0 mg for babies, 10 mg for children over 15 years old), in addition to vitamins.

Opinion of Dr. Komarovsky

Everyone is susceptible to streptococcus, according to well-known pediatrician and TV host Evgeny Komarovsky. The illness can strike anyone at any age, but it most frequently strikes children who are in kindergarten or school or who participate in contact sports. Antibiotics will help hasten the disease’s recovery regardless of whether the finger or another area showed symptoms of a streptococcal infection. It is strongly advised by Evgeny Olegovich not to refuse antibacterial therapy.

Unfortunately, a lot of mothers wrongly think that calendula and chamomile infusion, along with other "grandmother’s" remedies, can treat streptococcus. Only when streptoderma spreads does it turn chronic. According to Evgeny Komarovsky, modern antibiotics are not at all frightening, and the harm they cause is greatly overstated. In addition, this is the fastest and most efficient course of treatment.

Streptoderma has a good prognosis and can be readily and fully cured. Therefore, if there are quick and efficient ways to get rid of, there’s no need to experiment with folk remedies.

Prevention

Our skin naturally harbors streptococci. Everyone possesses them, including those who are well. As long as a person has a robust immune system, they do not harm them. However, as soon as it becomes weaker or skin damage occurs, the individual is immediately at risk of developing streptoderma. Given this, it makes sense to address infection prevention beforehand. You can handle this with a few simple tips.

• Teach your child to maintain hygiene from an early age. Be more careful about the hygiene of the infant. As soon as the child comes home, you need to wash your hands immediately, approach the baby with clean, washed hands. If the child is in a crowded place for a long time, for example, traveling with his mother on a train or plane, after this it is necessary not only to wash his hands, but also to treat them with an antiseptic, for example, "Miramistin".
• Any scratches, abrasions and wounds on the child are best immediately treated with an antiseptic, for example, with hydrogen peroxide, without waiting for an infection to develop or not. In case of injury, you can use "Baneocin" cream or another therapeutic and prophylactic drug.
• Chronic diseases increase the likelihood of susceptibility to bacteria, and therefore you should not leave them to chance in any case, the child should receive the correct and high-quality medical care in a timely manner.
• Strengthen the child"s immunity. Most often, various ailments, including skin infectious, are suffered by children who grow in “greenhouse” conditions. Adequate physical activity, sports, walks in the fresh air, hardening and healthy nutrition without overfeeding are the best ways to support the child"s immunity.
• From an early age, a child should be taught not to take other people"s things, toys and not to give their own things to strangers.

Should the child have previously experienced streptoderma, you should exercise extra caution. Re-infection is extremely likely because there is no vaccine against this pathogen and no particular immunity to it. As a result, it is crucial to pay attention to news from kindergarten and school. Examine the child every day and remain extra cautious if they discuss putting them in quarantine. Do not hesitate to notify the preschool or general education institution’s administration if your child is ill.

Adhere to restraints: avoid bringing a sick child on public transportation. Instead, take him for a stroll in a park or square some distance away, away from other kids, where he won’t come into contact with other kids or touch things like slides, carousels, or benches.

Children frequently get streptoderma, a skin infection that needs to be treated right away. Early detection of symptoms like blisters and red patches is essential to stopping the infection from spreading. A speedy and efficient recovery is possible with the right care and hygiene.

For the best course of action, which may involve topical ointments and antibiotics, parents should speak with a doctor. Keeping things clean and avoiding scratches are essential preventative measures.

You can help your child recover from streptoderma while reducing discomfort and averting further outbreaks by being knowledgeable and proactive.

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