Common infections of the skin. Characteristics, causes, and cures.

If the skin's protective mechanisms are disrupted, cutaneous infection may result. Diagnosis is based on recognition of clinical signs. Accurate assessment of these signs and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment can help patients avoid serious complications, such as glomerulonephritis occurring with impetigo contagiosa or gangrene and sepsis occurring with cellulitis. Recurrence of skin infections is difficult to prevent, but patients should be encouraged to practice good hygiene and to avoid irritants and predisposing factors nonetheless.