Skin manifestations of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen causing significant illness and death, especially in vulnerable individuals.
• Skin manifestations of P. aeruginosa infections are frequent, arising from local inoculation or systemic spread.
• The increasing number of patients with predisposing conditions necessitates a review of P. aeruginosa skin infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent evidence on the epidemiology, risk factors, and diagnosis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa skin manifestations.
• To consolidate current knowledge on the diverse clinical presentations and management strategies for P. aeruginosa skin infections.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent published literature.
• Analysis of epidemiological data, risk factors, and diagnostic approaches.
• Synthesis of findings on various P. aeruginosa skin infection types and their management.

Main Results:

• Common P. aeruginosa skin infections include green nail syndrome, toe web infection, hot tub folliculitis, hot hand-foot infection, and external otitis, typically responding to local treatment in immunocompetent hosts.
• Severe manifestations like ecthyma gangrenosum, subcutaneous nodules, necrotizing skin/soft tissue infections, and burn wound infections are linked to bloodstream infections and occur primarily in immunocompromised or comorbid patients.
• Multidrug resistance and host immune status significantly impact systemic P. aeruginosa infections.

Conclusions:

• Management of P. aeruginosa skin infections varies based on clinical presentation and host factors, ranging from local therapies to multidisciplinary approaches with systemic antibiotics for severe cases.
• Prompt diagnosis and tailored treatment are essential for improving prognosis, particularly in high-risk patient populations.
• Further research into P. aeruginosa epidemiology and effective treatment strategies remains critical.