What Is the Treatment for a Strep Skin Infection?
Treatment for group A streptococcal skin infections varies depending on the specific type of infection, which includes cellulitis, erysipelas, scarlet fever and necrotizing fasciitis. Treatments for these infections may include oral or intravenous antibiotics, according to Cleveland Clinic.
Cellulitis and erysipelas are two similar types of group A streptococcal skin infections. Cellulitis is inflammation of the skin and deep underlying tissues, while erysipelas is inflammation of the upper layers of skin. These two types of streptococcal skin infections are usually treated with oral or intravenous antibiotics, depending on the severity of the infection, explains Cleveland Clinic.
Scarlet fever is another type of group A streptococcal skin infection. It is a disease that sometimes follows a bout of strep throat. The main symptom of scarlet fever is a red rash on the sides of the chest and abdomen, though the rash may cover most of the body. Generally, doctors treat scarlet fever with antibiotics, states Cleveland Clinic.
Necrotizing fasciitis is a more severe form of group A streptococcal skin infection. This is a flesh-eating condition that may include symptoms such as fever, redness at the site of a wound, rash over large areas of the body and severe pain and swelling. Doctors treat this infection quickly, as it may lead to shock, organ failure and death. Specific antibiotics, such as penicillin, erythromycin and clindamycin, combat necrotizing fasciitis. Doctors may also remove tissue or amputate limbs if tissue damage is severe, notes Cleveland Clinic.
