Skin Infections
Skin infections can be viral, bacterial or fungal in nature. Some of the most common types of infections we treat include:
- Warts (caused by human papilloma virus)
- Molluscum Contagiosum
- Fungal Infections (athlete’s foot, ringworm, toenail fungus)
- Bacterial Infections (impetigo, MRSA, cellulitis, abscesses)
- Shingles
- Cold Sores
Skin Infections We Treat
Warts
There are more than 150 known strains of human papilloma virus, and several of them can cause warts. Many warts will go away on their own with time, or can be treated with over-the-counter medication. However, if the warts become painful or if a patient has many warts, it’s a good idea to visit us at Georgia Skin Specialists.
Depending on the patient’s age and the type of warts they have, we provide a number of effective treatments. This can include cryotherapy, electrotherapy and curettage, or a simple excision. More stubborn warts may require laser therapy, a chemical peel, or some other treatment recommended by the dermatologist.
Molluscum Contagiosum
The small skin bumps known as Molluscum Contagiosum are most common in children aged 10 and under. The bumps can be itchy and they can become infected over time if the patient scratches them too much. There are prescription medications that a board-certified dermatologist can recommend for patients with Molluscum. In more severe cases, additional in-office treatments can be discussed with one of our providers.
Fungal Infections
Yeast that naturally grows on everyone’s skin can grow out of control if the skin is not kept dry. This leads to a fungal infection that can be extremely itchy and unsightly if the infection grows on an exposed part of the body, such as the hands. Here are some of the most common types of fungal skin infections we treat in patients:
- Athlete’s foot
- Ringworm
- Jock itch
- Yeast infection
- Tinea versicolor
Most fungal infections can be treated with over-the-counter medication. Once the dermatologist diagnoses the type of infection, typically by examining a skin scraping under a microscope, they can recommend the most effective medication for treatment.
Bacterial Infections
A bacterial skin infection can happen anywhere on the body. These types of infections typically make their way into the body through a breach in the skin, such as a surgical incision, cut, piercing or insect bite. Bacterial skin infections should be diagnosed by one of our dermatologists, so a proper treatment protocol can be recommended. Some of the most common types of bacterial infections we treat include:
- Cellulitis – Painful, swollen infection with red skin, usually on the legs
- Folliculitis – Red, swollen bumps at the base of hair follicles
- Impetigo – Oozing, pus-filled sores
- Furuncle – Also known as boils, characterized by a tender red lump
- Erythrasma – Scaly pink or brown skin patches, usually in the armpits
Once a diagnosis is reached, the doctor will recommend topical or oral prescription medication to treat the infection.
Shingles
Shingles is a viral skin infection that can cause severe pain if prompt treatment is not administered. The virus is often identified through performing a skin scraping on the rash. Treatment of shingles will involve an antiviral prescription, a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation, and pain relievers. If left untreated, shingles can cause long-lasting pain due to nerve damage.
Call Georgia Skin Specialists for Skin Infections
The sooner a person comes in to see one of our board-certified dermatologists, the better the outcome of their skin infection will be. Call us today to schedule an appointment, or click below to book online.