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Recurrent staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome in children: report of two cases
R S Machang'u1, G Mgode, N Gisakanyi
1Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania.
Insights
Recurrent staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) in older children is rare. This case highlights potential new strains or host susceptibility in recurrent SSSS infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a blistering skin condition.
- SSSS is typically seen in newborns and infants.
- Recurrence of SSSS is uncommon.
Observation:
- Two male siblings in Tanzania presented with localized SSSS.
- The condition recurred in the same children within a year.
- A Staphylococcus aureus strain resistant to ampicillin was isolated.
Findings:
- The isolated Staphylococcus aureus produced exfoliative toxins (ETs).
- This suggests a diagnosis of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS).
- The recurrent nature in older children is unusual.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a possible new, adaptable S. aureus strain.
- Alternatively, inherent host susceptibility may play a role.
- This case expands the understanding of SSSS epidemiology and risk factors.
Abstract:
A localised "scalded skin syndrome" occurred in two male siblings aged five and ten years old, in Morogoro, Tanzania. This condition recurred in the same children within a period of about 12 months. A haemolytic ampicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the bullous material, suggesting that the condition was staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS). This implies that the bacterial isolate was an exfoliative toxin (ET) producing S. aureus. This infection was, however, striking because SSSS occurs mostly in newborns, and it is rarely recurrent. It is possible that a new strain with particular adaptability, or an inherent susceptibility to the S. aureus of the affected children was the cause of this recurrency.