Bacterial Skin Infections

	Bacterial Skin Infections The skin is the body's first barrier against bacteria that cause infections. Even though many bacteria live on the surface of our skin, healthy skin can usually protect us from infection. Bacterial skin infections can affect a small spot or may spread, affecting a large area. They can range from a treatable infection to a life-threatening skin condition.
	Anyone who has a break in the skin is at risk for infection. Certain conditions or diseases put a child at greater risk for infection, including:
	Diabetes. Autoimmune deficiency syndrome, or AIDS (because of a depressed immune system that is unable to fight the infection). Skin damaged by sunburn or scratching.
	There are many types of bacterial skin infections that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. If you cannot find the information in which you are interested, please visit the Dermatology Related Web sites page to view a list of Web sites that may contain additional information on that topic.
	Impetigo Cellulitis Scarlet Fever Folliculitis, Boils, Carbuncles Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome Return to the Dermatology Home Page Return to the Disorders, Diseases and Organ Topics Home Page