Understanding Common Skin Infections: Types, Causes & Symptoms

Common skin infections by causative agent:

Bacterial

• Acne: Cutibacterium acnes; comedones, papules, pustules.
• Cellulitis: Deep skin infection; redness, swelling, pain, warmth.
• Impetigo: Contagious; honey-colored crusts on face/extremities.
• Staph infections: Boils, abscesses, cellulitis; can be serious (MRSA).

Fungal

• Athlete's foot (tinea pedis): Itching, burning, scaling between toes.
• Ringworm (tinea corporis): Circular, scaly, itchy patches on skin/hair/nails.

Viral

• Herpes simplex: Cold sores, genital lesions.
• Warts (HPV): Rough, raised growths.

Parasitic

• Scabies: Mite infestation; intense itching, burrows, contagious.

Inflammatory/Chronic (non-infectious but often confused)

• Eczema (atopic dermatitis): Dry, itchy, inflamed skin; genetic/environmental.
• Psoriasis: Autoimmune; red, scaly plaques.

Any persistent skin infection warrants medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment.