Pediatrics

Biography

Biography: Juan Pablo Rojas Hernández

Abstract

Ecthyma gangrenosum (EG) is a rare infection of the skin, known as a characteristic lesion caused by Pseudomoma aeruginosa, but also can occur from other types of bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus or beta hemolytic group, among others. This condition is often associated with primary and secondary immunodeficiencies. The lesions present clinically as scaly, erythematous violacious macules that rapidly evolve into papule-vesicles, bleeding and crusty blisters leaving a deep punch ulcer with a necrotic base. Mortality is high, between 40% and 75% of immunologically compromised individuals. We describe the case of a girl of 5 years of age who initially presented chickenpox and then superinfection with Staphylococcus aureus, causing a clinical picture of EG. The diagnosis was reached based on symptoms, cultures and skin biopsies. Management was achieved with acyclovir, intravenous clindamycin and cefepime, with a good and quick response by the patient.