SSSS is caused by hematogenous dissemination of exfoliative toxin produced by S.aureus, a toxin-producing staphylococcus
-Bullous impetigo is caused by the same exfoliative toxins when they affect the skin locally.
-SSSS is most common in neonates and children under the age of 5 years
Symptoms & Signs: Tender, macular erythema develop abruptly over the face, axilla, and groin; as they spread, they form blisters over all parts of the body; the blisters enlarge to slough and give ‘rolled up’ sandpaper-like texture to skin
-Lateral traction of the skin reveals the splitting of the epidermis from the dermis (Nikolsky sign)
Diagnosis: can be established by skin biopsy and isolation of Staph aureus from the lesions
Treatment: Antistaphylococcal antibiotics, intravenous fluids and supportive measures
Healing occurs in 7 to 10 days.