Neonatal Pseudomonas putida infection presenting as staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

Abstract

A case of neonatal Pseudomonas putida sepsis presenting as staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome is described. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome is a clinical term used for a spectrum of primarily neonatal blistering skin disorders caused by the exfoliative toxins of Staphylococcus aureus. The disease typically begins with general erythema and fever, followed by the formation of large fluid-filled bullae that coalesce and rupture on slightest pressure to leave extensive areas of denuded skin. The 9-day-old male infant described presented with a generalised non-tender, macular, erythematous rash that later developed into large, flaccid, clear fluid-filled bullae to leave extensive erythematous, weeping, and denuded areas covering over 90% of the total body surface. Despite aggressive antibiotic and symptomatic treatment, he died 11 days after admission. While Pseudomonas infections may present with vesico-bullous eruptions, this is believed to be the first case of neonatal Pseudomonas putida sepsis presenting as staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome.