Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Skin infections


Overview

Viruses cause warts. Fungi cause athlete's foot and ringworm. Parasites cause lice and scabies. Bacteria cause cellulitis, impetigo, and many other skin lesions.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include itchiness, redness, and pain. Some infections cause blisters that drain pus or fluid.

Treatments

Some skin infections can be life-threatening. Treatments include over-the-counter creams and antibiotics, depending on the cause.