What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Aeromonas Hydrophila Infection of Skin
• Aeromonas Hydrophila Wound Infection

What is Aeromonas Skin Infection? (Definition/Background Information)

• Aeromonas Skin Infection is a bacterial infection of the skin (and soft tissues), typically involving wounds. Even though skin infections are uncommon, bacteria belonging to Aeromonas sp. can cause several other conditions such as acute and chronic diarrhea and meningitis
• Aeromonas species of bacteria are found in aquatic environments - in freshwater, brackish water, and polluted waters. Exposure of any open wounds to contaminated waters can result in entry of the bacteria via the wounds, resulting in Aeromonas Skin Infection. The bacterium Aeromonas hydrophila is most commonly implicated
• A diagnosis of the infection requires a physical exam and culture of the fluid from the sore, for the presence of the causative bacteria. Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for Aeromonas Skin Infection. The prognosis is generally good with early diagnosis and adequate treatment; however, in individuals with poor immunity, the condition may present severe complications

Who gets Aeromonas Skin Infection? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Aeromonas Skin Infection may affect individuals of any age
• It affects both males and females without any gender predilection
• There is no preference for any racial or ethnic group observed, and the condition is seen worldwide, particularly in the tropics and subtropics

What are the Risk Factors for Aeromonas Skin Infection? (Predisposing Factors)

The primary risk factor associated with Aeromonas Skin Infection is the exposure of open wounds to contaminated waters where the causative bacteria thrive. The open wounds may be in the form of cuts, nicks, scratches, bites, stings, or even surgical wounds. Individuals with poor immune system have a high risk for infection.

The Aeromonas bacteria can be present in the following aquatic environments:

• Freshwater ponds, lakes, and reservoirs
• Estuaries (brackish water)
• Well water
• Swimming pools (the bacteria is chlorine resistant)
• Drinking water, including bottled water
• Rainwater runoffs
• Polluted water including waste water
• Wet soil and slush; swampy soil

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Aeromonas Skin Infection? (Etiology)

Aeromonas Skin Infection develops following bacterial infection by Aeromonas sp. (notably Aeromonas hydrophila). These bacteria are found in a variety of aquatic/marine environments, including on wet/moist soil.

• Exposing open cuts or wounds to freshwater or saltwater, can cause bacteria to enter the skin leading to an infection. The bacteria produce a toxin that injures the skin tissues
• Individuals who are immunocompromised have a high risk for severe infections
• Leech bites: The bacterium is found in leeches, and all leech bites have the potential for transmission of the bacteria into human skin

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Aeromonas Skin Infection?

The signs and symptoms of Aeromonas Skin Infection may vary from one individual to another and may be mild or severe. In most cases, the skin infection is localized to the infected (wound) area, although a variety of skin presentations may be observed.

The signs and symptoms may include:

• Presence of redness and fluid-filled blisters
• Involvement of several skin layers may be noted, along-with the hair follicles (causing folliculitis)
• Cellulitis: Infection where the inner skin layers (dermis) including the subcutaneous tissues may be affected, resulting in red patches or plaques
• Impetigo: Red sores which quickly rupture, ooze for a few days, and then form a yellowish-brown crust
• The infection may present severe pain, itching, and burning sensation 

Apart from these, systemic signs and symptoms, such as fever and chills, may be noted.

How is Aeromonas Skin Infection Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Aeromonas Skin Infection may involve the following tests and procedures:

• Complete evaluation of medical history along with a thorough physical exam
• A culture may be performed to confirm the presence of bacteria and to rule-out other causes of infection. In this culture, a small amount of pus or fluid from one of the sores is collected and sent to the lab for testing. The test results can help confirm the presence and type of bacteria (if any)
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin biopsy, if needed: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Aeromonas Skin Infection?

The complications of Aeromonas Skin Infection are uncommon, but may include:

• Emotional stress due to cosmetic concerns
• Secondary bacterial/fungal infections
• Abscess formation
• Permanent scarring
• Necrotizing fasciitis - infection that results in the destruction of skin, fat, and deeper tissues
• Septicemia that can result in systemic infection

In individuals with weak immune systems, the complications can be particularly severe.

How is Aeromonas Skin Infection Treated?

The treatment measures for Aeromonas Skin Infection may include:

• Administration of antibiotics, such as doxycycline or ciprofloxacin, based on the healthcare provider’s evaluation
• Surgical drainage of abscess and debridement of dead tissue, as necessary
• Adequate skin self-care through:
  • Employing hygienic measures, such as keeping the skin clean, can heal mild infections faster and without much effort
  • The areas around the blisters should be gently washed with soap and running water. Moist, yellow scabs can be cleansed with hydrogen peroxide diluted with water
  • Wearing gloves while applying ointment on the blisters is advised. Washing the hands after applying ointment on the blisters is always recommended
• Immediate hospitalization may be necessary for individuals with severe infections and/or complications

How can Aeromonas Skin Infection be Prevented?

Aeromonas Skin Infection may be prevented by considering the following measures:

• Avoid exposure of open wounds to contaminated waters
• Cuts, scrapes, insect bites, and wounds must be washed immediately, and suitable ointment applied, to prevent any infection
• Getting treatment for any underlying medical condition(s) that may decrease one’s immunity

What is the Prognosis of Aeromonas Skin Infection? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Aeromonas Skin Infection is generally good with appropriate early treatment
• However, in immunocompromised individuals, or in those with severe complications, the prognosis may depend on several factors, including the administration of speedy treatment

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Aeromonas Skin Infection:

Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition.