Scalded skin syndrome

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Ritter disease; Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSS)

Intravenous antibiotics that are specific for staphylococcus are given to help fight the infection. Because much fluid is lost through the open skin, supplemental intravenous fluid is important to prevent dehydration .

Moist compresses to the skin may improve comfort. An emollient may be applied to keep the skin moist. Healing begins in about 10 days following treatment.

The prognosis is usually excellent. A full recovery is expected.

• severe bloodstream infection (septicemia)
• fluid regulation problems causing dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
• poor temperature control (in young infants)
• spread to deeper skin infection (cellulitis)

Call your health care provider or go to the emergency room if symptoms of this disorder appear.

Review Date: 12/01/2005
Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.