Infections - Most Common Types of Them!

The skin is the largest organ of the body and is hence susceptible to a great number of infections. Here are a few skin infections arranged according to the causative organism:
Bacterial Infections 

1. Leprosy: Mycobacterium leprae is the bacterium which spreads slowly and causes leprosy. It is also called Hansen’s disease.
2. Carbuncles: It is a swollen, painful and red boil aggregation which is joined underneath the skin.
3. Cellulitis: It is a common skin infliction that spreads underneath the skin to the adjoining soft tissues. It happens due to the bacteria entering the skin through a cut or a wound.
4. Boils: An infected oil gland or hair follicle may lead to a boil. The area affected turns red and soon, a lump forms at the same site.
5. Impetigo: It is extremely contagious and can occur on any body part. Exposed areas of the skin are more prone to this bacterial infection.

Fungal Infections 

1. Ringworm: Ringworm is a misnomer as it is caused by dermatophytes which are fungi. It’s also called tinea.
2. Candidiasis: Certain types of yeast cause candidiasis. The causative yeast is present on everybody’s body surface.
3. Sporotrichosis: This fungal infection is common among gardeners and farmers as the mould which causes sporotrichosis can be found on soil, hay and plants.
4. Nail fungal infections: When fungus spreads to the nails it might lead to fungal nail infections.
5. Athlete’s Foot: It’s a very common infection that can develop in non-athletes as well. This fungal infection can happen to men, women, girls and boys of every age group.

Viral Infections

1. Shingles: Herpes zoster or shingles is caused by reactivation of the chicken pox virus.
2. Chickenpox: Red, itchy rash caused by the varicella virus is an infectious disease that affects a great majority of children. Chickenpox usually happens once in a lifetime as the body has antibodies to protect itself from a repeat infection.
3. Molluscum Contagiosum: It is a viral infection that leads to multiple or singular raised bumps on the skin. These bumps are called papules and resemble pearls. Consult an Expert & get answers to your questions!