Secondary Infection of Eczema
| Treatment | Secondary infection of eczema is common. The skin becomes fiery and weepy, and can develop vesicles, pustules or golden crusting. It is sometimes impossible to differentiate clinically between bacterial (S.aureus/ S.pyogenes) and herpetic infection. If in doubt, it is best to swab for both and treat for both. The swab results will give some guidance for subsequent attacks. Viral swabs are obtainable from Area Supplies and current recommended product is Copan brand (red-topped container): please refer to the Microbiology Handbook for more information. |
| Referral | If the infection is severe (pyrexial or systemically unwell), contact the duty Dermatologist for immediate assessment, as parenteral therapy may be required. |
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