Ecthyma gangrenosum: an important feature of pseudomonal sepsis in a previously well child.

Full Abstract

Ecthyma gangrenosum is a rare, distinctive skin disorder associated with potentially fatal underlying pseudomonal sepsis. Although typically occurring in neutropenic or immunocompromised patients, it can occasionally affect healthy children. The appearances are characteristic with small indurated vesicular papules progressing rapidly to infarcted necrotic areas with surrounding erythema and a typical black eschar. In young children, these are often accompanied by fever and diarrhoea. The absence of suppuration and slough distinguishes it from the more recognized pyoderma gangrenosum. Lesions can occur at any site although are most commonly found over the buttocks, limbs, axillae and perineum. We describe the case of a 28-month-old, previously well child who presented with typical features of ecthyma gangrenosum secondary to Pseudomonas infection who responded to appropriate antibiotic treatment. Despite a thorough search, no underlying cause was found. Early recognition and prompt treatment with antipseudomonal antibiotics is vital to reduce morbidity and potential mortality.

Author information

Author/s: Goolamali, S I (SI); Fogo, A (A); Killian, L (L); Shaikh, H (H); Brathwaite, N (N); Ford-Adams, M (M); Macfarlane, S (S);

Affiliation: Department of Dermatology, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, UK. sachagoolamali(-atsign-)yahoo.co.uk

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Case Reports; Journal Article

Journal: Clinical and experimental dermatology (Clin Exp Dermatol), published in England. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Jul; vol 34 (issue 5) : pp e180-2

Dates: Created 2009/06/10; Completed 2009/07/27;

PMID: 19094136, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 8/20/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

External Links for this article
(including full text providers, if available):

Click Electronic Full-text Provider Links to see options for finding the electronic full text links to this article. Note there may be a subscription or fee required for access to the full text. See our FAQ for information on finding FREE full text articles.

This article may also be located in paper journal collections available in many libraries. Use the Journal and Publication Information above to find the full article.