Infectious Diseases and HIV Conference

Dermatological infections are perhaps one of the most diverse groups of conditions involving skin, hair, and nails. Diagnosis itself and even treatment can be very challenging.

This presentation aims to consider a review of the more comprehensive dermatological infections, look at their clinical features, outline diagnostic approaches, and finally outline the current principles of treatment. Bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections form part of the common dermatological infections.

The bacterial skin infections include cellulitis, impetigo, and folliculitis, caused by such pathogens as Staphylococcus aurous and Streptococcus pyogenes. Viral infections, including herpes simplex and human papillomavirus, may cause extreme morbidity, and fungal infections such as tinea and candidiasis are very prevalent in various populations. Parasitic infections, including scabies, add to this complicated complex landscape of dermatological conditions.

Diagnosis: Accurate diagnosis of cutaneous infection is essential in order to ensure proper management. The clinician must be able to distinguish between infectious and non-infectious disease entities as these sometimes present similarly and common signs and symptoms may overlap. This session shall discuss the role that clinical examination, laboratory tests, and other advanced imaging play in arriving at the definitive diagnosis.

The treatment of cutaneous infections depends on the etiologic agent and on the degree of infection as well as patient-related factors. Participants will discuss current guidelines for treating various cutaneous infections, including topical and systemic antibiotics used in the treatment of bacterial infections, antiviral drugs in the handling of viral infections, antifungals used in the treatment of fungal infections, and ant parasites and their role in the conditions of scabies among others. The session will emphasize the challenge posed by antimicrobial resistance in dermatological infections, instead highlighting the stewardship program for the optimal use of the treatment regimen with minimum development of resistance.

Preventive measures will include hygiene and vaccination practices to reduce the incidence of such infections.

Join us as we listen to these industry leaders who will share insights on the complexities involved with dermatologic infections, laying a foundation for collaboration and a shared knowledge in an effort to improve diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes in this important area of infectious disease.