Bacterial Infections

Abstract

The skin provides a barrier between the body and the external environment and it is colonised by the bacteria and other microorganisms that make up the skin microbiome. Bacterial infections occur when bacteria invade through damage to the skin barrier, via trauma or pre‐existing skin conditions, or through inoculation or inhalation; bacterial skin infections can range from minor irritations to life‐threatening conditions. This chapter explores bacterial infections which can affect the skin, from the common to the rare, describing the epidemiology, presentation and management of each condition.