Staphyloccocal scalded skin syndrome in an adult

We report a case of staphyloccocal scalded skin syndrome due to an oxacillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus in an 81-year-old woman. The patient was admitted to the emergency room with arthritis of the left shoulder, ten days after an intra-articular injection of corticosteroids. The shoulder's puncture showed a purulent liquid and gram positive cocci in cluster suggesting the presence of Staphylococcus sp. on the Gram-stain. The culture confirmed the identification of an oxacillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus. Before administration of any dose of oxacillin, blisters appeared on the skin, that quickly ruptured, particulary in areas of friction. The exfoliated areas were extensive and resolution of all the lesions was reached after 3 weeks. The skin biopsy showed superficial epidermolysis confirming the diagnosis. Staphyloccocal scalded skin syndrome is usually described in neonates and young children, often in outbreaks. Few cases have been reported in adults, most often associated with severe underlying diseases. The mortality rate is low in children but can reach almost 60% in adults. The most important diagnosis to exclude is Lyell's syndrome which can be done by the skin biopsy.