Infected rash and atopic dermatitis
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Infected rash and atopic dermatitis
If a rash caused by atopic dermatitis does not clear up, it may be infected.
- Viral infections, such as herpes simplex, may be treated with medication that slows or stops viral growth (antiviral medication).
- Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics. If the infected area is small, a topical antibiotic such as mupirocin may be put directly on the infected area. A serious infection with Staphylococcus aureus can be treated with oral (systemic) antibiotics such as erythromycin or dicloxacillin. Long-term antibiotic therapy may be useful if you have recurring attacks of atopic dermatitis triggered by bacteria growing on the skin.
- Fungal infections are treated with medications that kill fungi (antifungals). These medications may be applied to the skin or taken by mouth.
Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 5, 2008 |
| Last updated: | May 05, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
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