Infectious skin diseases and sexually transmitted
infections are frequently first seen, diagnosed and treated and thus are
integral parts of dermatology. These diseases range from “simple” ones such as
common warts to severe systemic infections including HIV/AIDS.
Methicillin resistant strains of Staphylococcus
aureus, i.e. bacterial strains which are resistant to conventional antibiotics,
have been a threat since several decades. These bacteria were found
predominantly in patients suffering from chronic diseases and were primarily
“nosocomial infections”, i.e infections occurring in hospitals. In recent year
community-acquired MRSA strains have been increasingly observed, affecting
otherwise healthy patients. Initially reported in the USA this germ has spread
worldwide and has become a potential health threat also in Europe. Dermatologists
therefore postulate unifying international efforts to combat the further spread
of CA-MRSA. Possible treatment options include antiseptic emollients and soap
substitutes that have shown efficacy in the control of resistant bacterial
strains.
The spread of head lice is usually associated with
poor socioeconomic conditions and war and post-war periods. In recent years
head lice have been frequently observed in school children in several European
countries and public campaigns to fight their spread have been conducted.
Treatment for head lice is usually performed with repeated use of antiseptic
shampoos and special combs lasting. Oral ivermectin, a systemic anti-parasitic
drug given in two doses seven days apart, has shown an effect superior to the
topical treatment.
Genital herpes caused by herpes simplex viruses is
the most frequent sexually transmitted infection. It is not only painful but
facilitates the transmission of other sexually transmitted diseases including
HIV-1. If a recurrence of genital herpes of the mother occurs before birth –
the infection can be transmitted to the neonates and may result in a life threatening
disease. The management of genital herpes and the use of prenatal antiviral
treatment to reduce the rates of recurrences and the viral shedding in pregnant
women are currently being intensively discussed among dermatologists.
