Infection Conditions of the Skin

Pityriasis rosea is an acute, self-limited skin disease. The etiology is not known, and it commonly occurs in young adults. Patients initially present with a single, ovoid “herald patch.” This is followed by diffuse, pruritic, scaly, oval lesions over the trunk (often in a “Christmas tree” distribution on the back) and extremities. The diagnosis is clinical. Pityriasis rosea is a self-limiting condition; therefore, usually no treatment is required. However, topical steroids and antihistamines may be used for pruritus, if needed.

Impetigo is a highly contagious superficial bacterial infection typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus (most common) and Streptococcus pyogenes. Impetigo most commonly presents in children aged 2 to 5 years with lesions that evolve from papules to vesicles to pustules, which eventually break down to form characteristic “honey-colored” crusts. Infection can either be primary (bacterial infection of healthy, intact skin) or secondary (infection of pre-existing abrasions). The diagnosis is clinical, and management includes topical or systemic antibiotic therapy. Complications of impetigo include post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, cellulitis, and scarlet fever.

Candida is a genus of dimorphic, opportunistic fungi. Candida albicans is part of the normal human flora and is the most common cause of candidiasis. Risk factors for infection include conditions or agents that may lead to an immunocompromised state, disruption of the normal flora, and/or disturbance of the mucosal barrier. The clinical presentation varies and can include localized mucocutaneous infections (e.g., oropharyngeal, esophageal, intertriginous, and vulvovaginal candidiasis) and invasive disease (e.g., candidemia, intraabdominal abscess, pericarditis, and meningitis). The diagnosis is made by identifying Candida on KOH preparation, cultures, or tissue biopsy. Treatment depends on the extent and site of infection, and includes topical or systemic antifungal medications

Malassezia is a lipophilic yeast commonly found on the skin surfaces of many animals, including humans. In the presence of certain environments or triggers, this fungus can cause pathologic diseases ranging from superficial skin conditions (tinea versicolor and dermatitis) to invasive disease (e.g., Malassezia folliculitis, catheter-associated fungemia, meningitis, and urinary tract infections). Patients with tinea versicolor develop an asymptomatic or mildly pruritic hypopigmented or hyperpigmented rash on the chest, back, abdomen, or face. Seborrheic dermatitis presents with an erythematous, pruritic rash with greasy scales and yellow crust, most commonly affecting areas of the face, upper trunk, or intertriginous regions. The presentation of Malassezia folliculitis is similar to that of bacterial folliculitis, with pruritic, monomorphic papules or pustules in a follicular pattern. The diagnosis of the superficial skin conditions is primarily by exam, but may be confirmed by microscopy of skin scrapings. Management entails the use of topical and oral antifungal agents.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a nonenveloped, circular, double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the Papillomaviridae family. Humans are the only reservoir, and transmission occurs through close skin-to-skin or sexual contact. Human papillomaviruses infect basal epithelial cells and can affect cell-regulatory proteins to result in cell proliferation. There are > 200 serotypes that can cause several conditions, including cutaneous warts, anogenital warts, and neoplasms.

Condylomata acuminata are a clinical manifestation of genital HPV infection. Condylomata acuminata are described as raised, pearly, flesh-colored, papular, cauliflower-like lesions seen in the anogenital region that may cause itching, pain, or bleeding. Sexual contact is a common route of spread for HPV. While seen in all populations and ages, condylomata acuminata is most often seen in adolescence. HPV types 6 and 11 are responsible for 90% of warts and are considered low risk for malignancy; however, other types of HPV should be considered. Lesions rarely self-resolve; however, they can be removed via cryotherapy or topical antimitotic agents. While there is currently no treatment for HPV infection, it can be prevented through vaccination.

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection limited to the epidermis and is common in children below 5 years of age. Lesions appear as grouped, flesh-colored, dome-shaped papules with central umbilication. Molluscum contagiosum is mild in immunocompetent patients and self resolves within months. Immunocompromised individuals present with extensive lesions and systemic disease, which require treatment. Molluscum contagiosum is highly transmissible; therefore, patient education is key in its management. Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen is the 1st-line treatment.