Non-burn skin loss conditions
There are some medical conditions that can cause significant skin loss in children and young people to such an extent that they are referred to a specialist burn service for management of their wounds.
173 children and young people received care in a burn service for a non-burn skin loss condition between 2014-2023 (figures taken from international Burn Injury Database, 2024).
Some of the medical conditions are listed below with links to websites that provide more detailed information about each condition.
Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome
Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome is a rare painful, blistering skin condition which may cover a wide area of skin. It is caused by bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium produces a toxin that damages the outer layer of the skin causing it to blister and peel. The affected skin initially looks like a scald or burn, and is very red and tender to touch, which is why the condition is called Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome.
Steven-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)
Steven-Johnson syndrome / Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis is a rare but serious skin reaction that is usually caused by taking certain medicines. It is now regarded as the same disease, historically they were thought to be different.
Meningococcal Septicaemia
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis and septicaemia can be very serious if not treated promptly. They can be life-threatening or cause life altering side effects, including limb and skin loss.
The NHS vaccine schedule now offers vaccination against different strains of meningitis.
Children and families that are transferred to a specialist burn service for treatment of skin loss are offered opportunities for support and rehabilitation in the same way as children who have suffered a thermal injury.
Please contact info@cbtrust.org.uk if you would like further information.
Geo's story
As a teenager, Geo had meningitis and septicaemia which caused multiple health issues including severe skin loss to both of his legs. After the initial treatment for meningitis he was transferred to a specialist burns service where he spent many months as a patient on the burns ward as they managed the severe wound.
Impact
parents and children attended Family Weekends in 2022
members in our private Facebook Group, supporting parents and carers of burn injured children
decline in fundraising income last year