What Is Perianal Streptococcus?
The Doc Smitty explains the most common form of strep infection no one talks about
“So, you’re saying my child has strep booty?”
“Well, umm, uhhh, ummm, yeah I guess that is what I’m saying….And, now that I think about it, I will definitely be calling it that for the rest of my career.”
Group A beta-hemolytic stroptoccal pharyngitis is probably something you have heard of before…well, you might have heard it called strep throat.
But, what you probably didn’t know is that that same bacteria can cause other infections. One of the most common is an infection of the skin just around a child’s anus.
The infection can cause significant pain, itching and when you look you will see a bright red, moist rash right around the anus. You can also sometimes see some blood in the stool from scratching and skin breakdown. Some parents confuse it with a really severe form of diaper rash.
The infection is most common in children 6 months through elementary school. How do kids get it? Spoiler alert: they often scratch and touch themselves…so, if they are around someone with strep throat, they can get it on their hands and infect themselves.
If you believe your child has perianal streptococcus, your baby should be seen by a pediatrician because prescription antibiotics are required.
Related:
Is it Strep Throat or the Flu?
Get to know Justin Smith, M.D.
Justin Smith, M.D., is a pediatrician in Trophy Club and the Medical Advisor for Digital Health for Cook Children's in Fort Worth, Texas. He has an active community on both Facebook and Twitter as @TheDocSmitty and writes weekly for Cook Children's checkupnewsroom.com. He believes that strategic use of social media and technology by pediatricians to connect with families can deepen their relationship and provide a new level of convenience for both of their busy lifestyles. Dr. Smith’s innovative pediatric clinic, a pediatric clinic “designed by you,” open now. Click to learn more. To make an appointment, call 817-347-8100.
