Skin Infections

Salicylic Acid

What does salicylic acid do? It is highly appreciated by cosmetologists and dermatologists. Salicylic acid uses include an antibacterial effect in many ointments and serums.

Cellulitis

An acute, spreading infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Several entities are recognized: Treat 10-30 days. Guided by culture results whenever possible.

Blastomycosis

Incidence/Prevalence in USA: Ranges from 0.4-4 cases per 100,000 population per year. Higher prevalence in states bordering the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Sporadic cases occurring in other areas.

Bartonella Infections

Blood cultures: lysis-centrifugation (Isolator) cultures plated on blood or chocolate agar, incubated at 35-37°C in 5% C02 > 2 weeks; enriched broth media, e.g. BACTER, incubated at 35-37°C in 5% C02 >2 weeks and subculture to agar if bacilli detected by periodic acridine orange staining. Avoid contact with potential vectors, especially young cats.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Impetigo is a superficial skin infection that is seen most commonly in children. It is highly communicable and spreads through close contact. Most cases are caused by S. pyogenes, but S. aureus either alone or in combination with S. pyogenes has emerged as a principal cause of impetigo.