Learning module: Bacterial skin infections

Goals and objectives

The purpose of this module is to help medical students develop a clinical approach to the evaluation and initial management of patients who present with bacterial infections.

After completing this module, the learner should be able to:

• Describe the morphology of common cutaneous bacterial infections

• Discuss the bacterial etiologies of cellulitis and erysipelas

• Recognize clinical patterns and risk factors that suggest methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

• Recommend initial steps for the evaluation and treatment of common cutaneous bacterial infections

• Recognize characteristic features of necrotizing fasciitis and the need for emergent treatment, including surgical intervention