ABSTRACT
Perianal streptococcal dermatitis1-4 and erysipelas5-7 are relatively superficial infections that are almost invariably caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. The syndromes overlap considerably. Perianal streptococcal dermatitis is defined as a bright red, sharply demarcated eruption that is caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococci, whereas erysipelas is a superficial cutaneous infection that may extend into the lymphatics, almost invariably recognized by a raised red border, sharply demarcating the infected from the uninvolved tissue. Impetigo is an acute, superficial skin infection characterized by exudation and crusting, occasionally involving the dermis but also presenting as a bullous eruption in young children. Folliculitis is defined as inflammation/infection of the hair follicle, whereas furunculosis occurs when the infection extends deeper into the dermis, with the formation of an abscess.
