Streptococcus pyogenes Infections in Skin and Skin Structures

Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, or GAS) is a highly pathogenic bacterium responsible for a wide spectrum of infections, including severe skin and soft tissue infections. These infections can range from mild superficial conditions, such as impetigo, to severe, life-threatening diseases like necrotizing fasciitis. Due to its ability to produce various virulence factors, S. pyogenes

Skin and Skin Structure Streptococcus Infections

Streptococcus species are among the most common causative agents of skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs). These infections range from mild impetigo to life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis. The most clinically significant species include Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus), Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B), and viridans group streptococci. These pathogens often exploit compromised skin barriers to invade tissue,

Skin and Skin Structure Streptococcus agalactiae Infection

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus or GBS) is a gram-positive, beta-hemolytic bacterium traditionally associated with neonatal infections. However, in recent decades, GBS has emerged as a significant pathogen in skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs), especially among immunocompromised adults, diabetics, and the elderly. These infections range from mild cellulitis to severe, invasive soft tissue conditions,

Skin and Skin Structure Staphylococcus Infection

Staphylococcus species, primarily Staphylococcus aureus, are the leading causative agents of skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs). These gram-positive cocci, including both methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant (MRSA) strains, are responsible for a wide spectrum of infections, ranging from superficial folliculitis to life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis. Due to their virulence factors, adaptability, and resistance potential, Staphylococcus infections

Skin and Skin Structure Serratia Infection

Serratia, particularly Serratia marcescens, is a gram-negative, facultative anaerobic bacillus that is commonly associated with nosocomial infections. Though more frequently linked with urinary and respiratory tract infections, Serratia is a notable pathogen in skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs), especially in immunocompromised patients or those with indwelling devices. Its ability to produce biofilms and exhibit

Skin and Skin Structure Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram-negative, opportunistic pathogen known for its role in healthcare-associated skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs). It poses a significant clinical challenge due to its intrinsic resistance mechanisms and its ability to thrive in moist, damaged, or necrotic tissue environments. These infections are especially prevalent among immunocompromised patients, individuals with burns, and

Skin and Skin Structure Providencia Infection

Providencia species, particularly Providencia stuartii and Providencia rettgeri, are gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic bacilli belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family. While more commonly implicated in urinary tract infections, Providencia has emerged as an opportunistic pathogen in healthcare-associated skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs), especially among elderly or immunocompromised patients. These organisms are frequently isolated in polymicrobial chronic

Skin and Skin Structure Proteus Infection

Proteus species, particularly Proteus mirabilis and Proteus vulgaris, are facultatively anaerobic gram-negative bacilli belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family. While commonly residing in the gastrointestinal tract, these organisms can become opportunistic pathogens in skin and soft tissue infections (SSSIs), particularly when normal barriers are compromised. Their motility (via peritrichous flagella) and urease activity contribute to their

Skin and Skin Structure Peptostreptococcus Infection

Peptostreptococcus is a genus of anaerobic, gram-positive cocci that forms part of the normal microbial flora of the skin, mucous membranes, and gastrointestinal tract. While typically harmless in commensal populations, these bacteria become pathogenic when introduced into sterile tissue via trauma, surgery, or compromised host immunity. Skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs) involving Peptostreptococcus are

Skin and Skin Structure Peptococcus Infection

Peptococcus species are gram-positive, obligate anaerobic cocci that form part of the normal human flora, particularly in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. Although generally considered non-pathogenic, under certain conditions such as immunosuppression, trauma, or surgical intervention, Peptococcus can become opportunistic, leading to serious skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs). Pathophysiology of Peptococcus in Soft Tissue