Ecthyma

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Ecthyma

Ecthyma gangrenosum

Ecthyma is a skin infection similar, to but more deeply invasive than impetigo.

The bacterium streptococcus is the most common infectious organism associated with ecthyma. staphylococcus bacteria may also cause ecthyma. The infection may start at the site of an injury, such as a scratch or insect bite, and is often found on the legs.

An ecthyma may begin with a pus-filled blister, similar to that seen in impetigo. However, the infection goes through the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and into the deeper layer (dermis). An ulcer with raised borders develops. It is covered by a hard crust. Unlike impetigo, ecthyma can sometimes result in scarring.

Review Date: 07/22/2005
Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.