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Perineal streptococcal dermatitis/disease: recognition and management
1Department of Dermatology, Klinikum Dortmund gGmbH, Dortmund, Germany. r.herbst@derma.de
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology
|July 17, 2003
Summary
Perianal streptococcal dermatitis (PSD), a common pediatric infection caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS), is often misdiagnosed. Prompt diagnosis and extended antibiotic treatment are crucial for cure and preventing complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Perianal streptococcal dermatitis (PSD) is a pediatric skin infection.
- It is primarily caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS).
- PSD is frequently misdiagnosed, leading to delayed treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnosis and management of PSD.
- To highlight the importance of GABHS in pediatric perianal infections.
- To advocate for a unified term for related infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentation and diagnostic methods for PSD.
- Discussion of treatment options, including antibiotics and duration.
- Emphasis on monitoring for post-streptococcal complications.
Main Results:
- Characteristic sharply demarcated erythema is key to diagnosis.
- Microbiological analysis or rapid strep tests confirm GABHS.
- Extended antibiotic therapy (14-21 days) is recommended.
Conclusions:
- PSD requires accurate diagnosis and prolonged antibiotic treatment.
- Vulvar, penile, and perianal GABHS infections should be termed 'perineal streptococcal disease'.
- Monitoring for post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is essential post-treatment.