A rare early presentation of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome in a Neonate

Abstract

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS) is caused by the exfoliative toxins (ETs) of Staphylococcus aureus. We present a case of a 3 days old infant with complaints of fever and diffuse erythematous exfoliation all over the body with bilateral conjunctivitis. The diagnosis of SSSS was reached based on clinical features and positive blood culture report. He responded well to the antibiotics paracetamol, and intravenous fluids for rehydration. He was discharged after 14 days, with complete resolution of symptoms. Having a high clinical suspicion for SSSS, early diagnosis/treatment, and following strict aseptic measures in neonatal intensive care unit are important.

Keywords

• Exotoxin
• methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
• Nikolsky's sign