Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Paediatrics

Common skin problems in children. Part 3: infectious rashes and infestations

Gayle Fischer
Abstract
Cutaneous infections and infestations are common in children; the key to their diagnosis is a positive culture or scraping to confirm infection and/or response to anti-infective agents.
Key Points
  • Although impetigo is usually due to Staphylococcus aureus, certain racial groups (including Aboriginals and Pacific Islanders) are particularly susceptible to group A Streptococcus infections.
  • Children with recurrent S. aureus infections are usually carriers of this bacterium.
  • Not all cases of folliculitis are due to S. aureus; Pseudomonas aeruginosa acquired from contaminated water or bath toys may be responsible.
  • Most acute genital infections in children are due to group A Streptococcus.
  • Genital warts are not all sexually acquired in children but should always be a cause for concern.
  • Scabies is often a very difficult diagnosis to make; it is often mistaken for dermatitis.
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