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Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

Editors: Henry M. Adam, MD.

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS) is the most severe manifestation in the spectrum of Staphylococcus aureus exotoxin-mediated disease in skin. The disease is characterized by erythema and exfoliation and is mediated by exotoxins elaborated primarily by phage group II S aureus.

SSSS affects children, especially infants. Both sporadic and epidemic cases occur. Older children and adults rarely are affected. Immature renal function, leading to a reduced ability to clear bacterial exotoxin, may account for the increased susceptibility of neonates, according to Elias and Fritsch. Renal and immunologic dysfunction predispose to the disease in older individuals.

SSSS begins abruptly with tender erythema of the skin. Within 12 to 14 hours, the attachment between the stratum corneum and underlying epidermis becomes weak.

This article has been cited by other articles:

				S. Ladhani, C. L. Joannou, D. P. Lochrie, R. W. Evans, and S. M. Poston Clinical, Microbial, and Biochemical Aspects of the Exfoliative Toxins Causing Staphylococcal Scalded-Skin Syndrome Clin. Microbiol. Rev., April 1, 1999; 12(2): 224 - 242. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]