Superinfections with previous illnesses

A superinfection is also possible with a herpes infection. It is particularly feared in the maximum expression of the so-called eczema herpeticatum. This extensive infection of the skin is very rare and usually occurs as a complication of the previously damaged skin in neurodermatitis.

A complication of this serious disease can be a bacterial superinfection of the eczema herpeticatum, which is accompanied by fever and general fatigue. The skin is very painful. The superinfection is usually caused by staphylococci, which are present on the skin of many affected persons anyway and tend to multiply due to the severely damaged skin barrier.

A combined antiviral and antibiotic therapy is typically used to combat both the herpes viruses and the bacteria. Neurodermatitis belongs to the so-called chronic inflammatory skin diseases. Atopic dermatitis damages, among other things, the structure of the skin barrier, which is why bacteria can settle more easily.

Furthermore, the immune system is also weakened, which is why the skin of a neurodermatitis sufferer is more prone to infections. In many affected persons there is an overgrowth of the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. In the course of an acute deterioration of the skin with the development of eczema, the germ can spread further and lead to a skin infection.

A superinfection with herpes viruses or fungi is also possible. More rarely, a superinfection with so-called papilloma viruses can also occur. This leads to the appearance of warts.

In many cases, insect bites can be an entry point for pathogens into the skin and thus promote superinfections. They often also cause itching, which makes the person affected scratch. Scratching the skin also causes wounds through which bacteria can penetrate the skin. Such a superinfection can manifest itself as pain at the injection site, redness or overheating. It can also lead to fever or general symptoms such as chills and fatigue.A doctor should be consulted for such complaints, as antibiotic therapy is often necessary.