Perianal streptococcal dermatitis imitates other common diseases in the anal region and therefore can be mistaken for "candidiasis, irritant diaper dermatitis, pinworm infestation, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, seborrheic dermatitis, or even sexual abuse." The delay in diagnosis of perianal streptococcal dermatitis can result in prolonged discomfort and additional symptoms of constipation, anal discharge or oozing, and anal fissures. Pathophysiology
Causes
In most cases of perianal streptococcal dermatitis in children, swab cultures indicate that infection is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, more specifically classified as group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (GAS). There have been reported cases, however, that have found perianal streptococcal cellulitis infections to be caused by group B beta-hemolytic streptococci (GBS) and, in rare cases, other groups of beta-hemolytic streptococci or Staphylococcus aureus. It is important to note, however, that in the rare adult cases of perianal streptococcal cellulitis that have been identified, the most common cause is by beta-hemolytic streptococci from group B specified as Streptococcus agalactiae. Streptococci are gram-positive bacteria that grow in chains, but they have no motility and do not generate spores. Group A streptococci and Group B streptococci are the two most common strains that are associated with pediatric cases. Infections caused by Group A streptococci are generally more mild than infections caused by Group B streptococci. The most common Group A streptococcus infections can range from strep throat to pneumonia to cellulitis. Group B streptococcus is more commonly found in the gastrointestinal and genital tracts, and can also be transmitted vertically from mother to child during vaginal labor.
Chlorhexidine (CHX) (commonly known by the salt forms chlorhexidine gluconate and chlorhexidine digluconate (CHG) or chlorhexidine acetate) is a disinfectant and antiseptic that is used for skin disinfection before surgery and to sterilize surgical instruments. It may be used both to disinfect the skin of the patient and the hands of the healthcare providers. It is also used for cleaning wounds, preventing dental plaque, treating yeast infections of the mouth, and to keep urinary catheters from blocking. It is used as a liquid or powder.Side effects may include skin irritation, teeth discoloration, and allergic reactions, although the risk appears to be the same as other topical antiseptics. It may cause eye problems if direct contact occurs. Use in pregnancy appears to be safe. Chlorhexidine may come mixed in alcohol, water, or surfactant solution. It is effective against a range of microorganisms, but does not inactivate spores.Chlorhexidine came into medical use in the 1950s. Chlorhexidine is available over the counter (OTC) in the United States. It is on the World Health Organizations List of Essential Medicines. In 2017, it was the 286th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than one million prescriptions.The name "chlorhexidine" breaks down as chlor(o) + hex(ane) + id(e) + (am)ine. Uses
Chlorhexidine is used in disinfectants (disinfection of the skin and hands), cosmetics (additive to creams, toothpaste, deodorants, and antiperspirants), and pharmaceutical products (preservative in eye drops, active substance in wound dressings and antiseptic mouthwashes).