Ecthyma (redirected from Contagious ecthyma)

ecthyma [′ek·thə·mə]

(medicine)

An inflammatory skin disease characterized by large flat pustules that ulcerate and become crusted, and are surrounded by a distinct inflammatory areola.

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Ecthyma 

a purulent skin disease caused mainly by streptococci penetrating the skin after minor trauma. The development of the disease is promoted by lowered resistance, metabolic disorders, and vitamin deficiency. A blister forms on the skin, most commonly on the legs. It has an inflammatory infiltrate at the base and purulent or purulent-bloody contents that dry into a crust which, after falling off, reveals a painful ulcer with steep edges and an uneven bottom covered by pus. Ecthyma heals gradually, leaving a scar.

Treatment consists in the application of disinfectant and epithelizing ointments. In severe cases, when deep, multiple eruptions occur, antibiotics are administered. Prevention requires treating bruises with disinfectant solutions.