Bacterial Conditions/Infections
Common bacterial conditions of the skin include razor bumps, ingrown hairs, boils, impetigo and cellulitis. As the name implies, these conditions are caused by the presence of bacteria and can be serious if not treated. In addition, if left untreated, many of these conditions can lead to permanent scarring.
Razor Bumps & Ingrown Hairs
Razor bumps and ingrown hairs (Pseudofolliculitis Barbae) can result from close shaving in individuals with curly hair or those with hair follicles oriented at an oblique angle to the skin surface. Closely shaved hairs re-enter the skin as they grow, causing lesions. The condition is seen most commonly in the neck, and if left untreated, can cause scarring and darkening of the skin.
 | | | | Ingrown hairs are commonly found on the neck due to close shaving |
Treatment
Your Trillium Creek Dermatology Medical Professional may draw upon a number of topical and oral antibiotics and antiinflammatory preparations to treat the infection and reduce long term damage to the skin. Shaving should be discontinued until inflammation is under control. Alternatives to shaving may be recommended, including depilatories. Finally, permanent hair removal is available with Trillium Creek’s Hair Removal PPx™.
Boils
A boil (furuncle) is a painful mass enclosing a collection of pus. Furuncles are closely related to carbuncles, which are deep masses of infected hair follicles. Furuncles are most commonly seen around the waist, thighs, buttocks and groin. Carbuncles can occur anywhere hair grows, and are most commonly seen on the back of the neck, the upper back and the thighs. Treatment by a medical professional is important, to ensure proper management of the condition and minimize recurrence or scarring.
 | | | | Boils are mostly found on the back of the neck, upper back, thighs and groin area |
Treatment
Your Trillium Creek Dermatology Medical Professional will advise you on the best course of treatment. These may include drainage of the lesion, topical and oral antibiotics or long term treatment if the condition is chronic.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a common, contagious infection of the skin caused by either staphylococcus (staph) bacteria, streptococcus (strep) bacteria, or a combination of the two. (There is little relation between the bacteria that cause strep throat and impetigo). Impetigo usually starts with itchy, red lesions, surrounded by reddened skin, often becoming crusted over.
Impetigo is most common in children ages 2 to 6, and is often seen on the face. Infection may occur after a minor skin injury leaves a small crack or wound exposed. Direct contact with lesions can spread the infection, and nasal discharge from an infected person can also harbor the bacteria.
 | |  | | Impetigo is a contagious infection of the skin often found on the face |
Treatment
Your Trillium Creek Dermatology Medical Professional will assess the severity of the infection and recommend topical and/or oral antibiotics. Cultures of lesions may be taken to enable targeted treatment. New lesions should be treated immediately to minimize spreading, and close contact with others should be avoided until crusted lesions are dry.
Cellulitis & Erysipelas
Cellulitis and erysipelas can be very serious infections of the skin commonly caused by the streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Cellulitis affects the skin and deep underlying tissues, while erysipelas is more superficial. Infection can occur at the site of a bruise or other wound such as a burn or surgical cut. Cellulitis and erysipelas infections are most often seen on the face, arms and legs accompanied by fever, chills, swollen lymph glands and pain.
 | |  | | Cellulitis and erysipelias is a serious infection of the skin and deep underlying tissue |
Treatment
Your Trillium Creek Dermatology Medical Professional will assess the severity of the infection and recommend topical and/or oral antibiotics. Cultures of lesions may be taken to enable targeted treatment. You may also be advised to elevate the affected limb to assist with drainage and speed recovery.
Call the Dermatology & Surgery Center to schedule an appointment at:
330.725.0569
Other Trillium Creek Service Areas:
Mohs Skin Cancer Center 330.721.9990
Ohio Holistic Medicine (OHM) 330.721.9990
The Boutique at Trillium Creek 330.722.5477
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