A patient presents with a skin infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. The patient’s lower leg is infected from the deep dermis to the subcutaneous fat. What disorder does this describe?

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This question was previously asked in

SGPGI Staff Nurse Official Paper (Held On: 28 Feb, 2024 Shift 1)

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Answer 1

Correct Answer: Cellulitis

Rationale:

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin, including the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. It is most commonly caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus.
This condition typically presents with redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area. Fever and chills may also occur, particularly in more severe cases.
The infection often arises from a break in the skin, such as a cut, scrape, or insect bite, which allows bacteria to enter and spread in the deeper tissue layers.
The description in the question specifies an infection extending from the deep dermis to the subcutaneous fat, which is characteristic of cellulitis.

Additional Information:

Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics, typically targeting Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species. Oral antibiotics are used for mild cases, while intravenous antibiotics may be required for severe or rapidly spreading infections.
Prompt treatment is critical to prevent complications such as abscess formation, sepsis, or necrotizing fasciitis.

Explanation of Other Options:

Impetigo

Rationale: Impetigo is a superficial bacterial skin infection, usually caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus. It primarily affects the epidermis and does not extend to the deeper dermis or subcutaneous tissue.
It presents with honey-colored crusted lesions and is more common in children. Unlike cellulitis, it does not involve significant swelling or redness in deeper tissues.

Psoriasis

Rationale: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to thick, scaly plaques. It is not caused by bacterial infection and does not involve the deep dermis or subcutaneous fat.
The condition typically presents with well-defined, red plaques covered with silvery scales, most commonly on the elbows, knees, and scalp.

Eczema

Rationale: Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and dry skin. It is not an infectious condition and does not involve bacterial pathogens like Streptococcus pyogenes.
Unlike cellulitis, eczema is confined to the epidermis and does not extend to the deeper skin layers.

Conclusion:

The correct diagnosis based on the description of an infection involving the deep dermis and subcutaneous fat caused by Streptococcus pyogenes is cellulitis. The other options describe conditions that either do not involve bacterial infection or do not extend into the deeper layers of the skin.