Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infection
What is a Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infection?
A complicated skin and skin structure infection (CSSSI) is an infection caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses that affects the deeper skin layers. It is generally a severe infection that can be difficult to treat and often requires hospitalization or intensive care for proper management. CSSSIs can spread to other parts of the body, leading to serious medical complications.
Signs and Symptoms of a Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infection
The signs and symptoms of a CSSSI depend on the type of infection. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or tenderness in an area of skin
- Fever and chills
- Foul-smelling drainage or pus from the area of skin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Cough and difficulty breathing
Causes of a Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections
CSSSIs can be caused by several types of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These include:
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Streptococcus pyogenes
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Klebsiella pneumoniae
- Escherichia coli
- Candida albicans
- Herpes simplex virus
- Varicella-zoster virus
Risk Factors for Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections
There are several risk factors for CSSSI including:
- Weakened immune system due to medical conditions such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and cancer
- Recent surgery or trauma
- Exposure to contaminated water, soil, or other surfaces
- Injecting drugs
- Use of long-term indwelling catheters
- Poor hygiene
- Living in close quarters with other people, such as in hospitals or nursing homes
Diagnosis of Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infection
Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order certain tests to diagnose a CSSSI. These tests may include:
- Complete blood count (CBC) to look for signs of infection
- Blood cultures to identify the type of bacteria
- CT scan to look for signs of pus or infection
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to look for underlying medical conditions
- X-rays to look for underlying medical conditions
- Skin biopsy to confirm the type of infection
Treatment of Complicated Skin and Skin Structure Infection
The treatment of a CSSSI depends on the type of infection and the underlying cause. Treatment may include:
- Antibiotics to eliminate the infection
- Vaccines to prevent the spread of the infection
- Surgery to remove dead tissue or to reduce the spread of the infection
- Fluids to prevent dehydration
- Pain medications to relieve discomfort
- IV antibiotics to treat severe infections