Infected Dermatitis : Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Introduction

Dermatitis is a term that describes inflammation of the skin. In dermatitis, 'derma' means skin, and 'itis' means inflammation. The word, as a whole, means inflammation of the skin. The rash ranges from mild to severe and can lead to a variety of problems depending on the origin of the rash. It has many causes and forms, usually accompanied by itching, dry skin, or a rash. It can cause the skin to blister, bleed, scab, or peel. This condition's three most common subtypes are seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and contact dermatitis. Dermatitis is not contagious, but it can make one feel psychologically stressed. Applying creams regularly can help control symptoms. Treatment may also involve using medicated ointments, creams, and shampoos.

What Is Infected Dermatitis?

Infected dermatitis is a skin condition that is common in people where skin inflammation causes open wounds that worsen. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of infected dermatitis so that it can be treated before the development of any further complications. Patches of dermatitis can become infected. This happens when viruses or bacteria enter open wounds or cracked skin at the site of the rash. The mechanisms underlying bacterial infection dermatitis are multifactorial and involve both immune and bacterial factors. A weakened skin barrier, congenital and adaptive skin abnormalities, and scratch trauma contribute to an increased risk of skin infections. The doctor must treat infected dermatitis as soon as possible. Various viruses, bacteria, and fungi can cause infected dermatitis. Below are some of the most common microorganisms that cause infectious dermatitis:

• Staphylococcus aureus (staphylococcal infection).

• Fungal infections such as Candida albicans.

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV).

What Are the Symptoms of Infected Dermatitis?

Infections usually cause skin irritation. This can make the dermatitis patches more swollen, discolored, and often more sensitive to touch. People with infected dermatitis may also experience the following:

• Burning sensation.

• Extreme itching.

• Liquid drainage.

• Blisters.

• White or yellow pus.

In severe cases, the following symptoms may be experienced:

• Chills.

• Fever.

• Pain.

• Malaise.

If a person is experiencing any of these symptoms at the dermatitis site, they should see a doctor to treat the infection.

What Are the Risk Factors for Infected Dermatitis?

Common irritants that can trigger infected dermatitis flare-ups include the following:

• Dust that can carry mites.

• Food allergens such as eggs, peanuts, soybeans, and wheat.

• Chemicals such as household detergents.

• Cosmetics, including soap.

• Certain fabrics, such as acrylic and wool.

• Humidity.

• When dermatitis occurs, an infection can occur if the skin is broken by scratching.

When to Get Help for Infected Dermatitis?

If a person notices fever, chills, low energy, or other signs of infection, such as blisters and excessive itching, immediate medical help should be sought for infected dermatitis. If a child or toddler develops symptoms of infected dermatitis, parents or caregivers should take them to a doctor immediately.

How Is Infected Dermatitis Diagnosed?

To diagnose dermatitis, the doctor will probably inquire about the symptoms and examine the skin with a biopsy. A doctor may suggest a patch test to determine the cause of the rash. In this test, a small amount of potential allergen is applied to an adhesive patch. Then the patch is applied to the skin. It stays on the skin for two to three days. During this time, the back should be kept dry. The doctor will then check for skin reactions under the patch to determine if further testing is necessary. This test is useful when the cause of the rash is unclear or when the rash recurs frequently. However, redness that indicates a reaction may be difficult to see on tanned or dark skin and may lead to misdiagnosis.

What Is the Treatment of Infected Dermatitis?

Treatment of infected dermatitis depends on the type of infection present. If the infection is of a viral origin, then the doctor may recommend an antiviral drug for treatment. For example, people with herpetic dermatitis require immediate treatment with Valacyclovir. For bacterial infections, doctors may use oral or topical antibiotics. The doctor may also prescribe a steroid cream to reduce associated swelling and discoloration. Fungal infections require antifungal creams or drugs. Steroid creams can also help with fungal dermatitis. Some antifungal creams are available over the counter to help with infections. Other treatments include:

• Topical Pimecrolimus or Tacrolimus for dermatitis in sensitive areas that does not respond to simple treatments.

• Antihistamines medication for severe itching.

• Bandages or a special body suit allow the body to heal underneath.

• A stronger treatment by a dermatologist (skin specialist).

What Are the Complications of Infected Dermatitis?

Infected dermatitis can lead to several complications. These depend on the type and severity of infection a person has. Untreated bacterial skin infections in dermatitis can become systemic and lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis (blood infection), endocarditis (infection in the heart), and bone and joint infections. Some common complications of infected dermatitis are:

• Long-lasting flare-ups.

• Increased itching and blistering.

• Scarring.

• Infected dermatitis can also lead to more dangerous complications. For example, if left untreated, a severe staphylococcal infection can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection.

• Severe dermatitis blisters can cause infection of the cornea of ​​the eye, leading to blindness.

• Organ failure can occur when herpes dermatitis spreads to internal organs such as the brain, lungs, and liver. However, this is rare.

How to Prevent Infected Dermatitis?

Infected dermatitis can be prevented in the ways listed below:

• Use of essential oils such as tea tree and evening primrose.

• Naturally soothing herbal products to treat flare-ups.

• Natural soaps and creams containing emollients.

• Oatmeal bath to soothe and dry atopic dermatitis.

• Applying a cream or soothing oil daily prevents the dermatitis area from drying.

• Practicing good personal hygiene.

• Taking extra care of flare-prone areas.

• Treating flares with the recommended treatment plan advised by the doctor.

• Take care of pets.

• Avoid irritants and allergens.

Conclusion

Dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that can lead to symptoms like itchy red rashes to patchy sores. Open wounds, especially those caused by scratching dermatitis-inflicted areas, can allow viruses, bacteria, and fungi to enter the skin, which can cause infection. Infected dermatitis is common in people who frequently get open sores related to their condition. However, not all people having dermatitis develop an infection. Timely treatment of infected dermatitis is important. In some cases, medical attention may be needed to prevent further complications of the infection. Doctors can treat most causes of infected dermatitis with prescription drugs, creams, and injections. The sooner infected dermatitis is treated, the better the results.