Rise in Ritter's disease cases in children at WakeMed

A rare skin condition called Ritter's disease is causing pain for several children treated at WakeMed.

Ritter's disease affects children at WakeMed hospital

In recent weeks, multiple children have been treated at WakeMed Hospital for a rare skin condition known as staphylococcal scalding skin syndrome (SSSS), also called Ritter's Disease. Parents have reported severe symptoms, including extensive redness and intense itching. One mother, Holly Rund, shared her five-year-old daughter Lexi experienced alarming pain and required hospitalization. Dr. Graham Snyder, an emergency physician at WakeMed, noted the condition may initially be misdiagnosed as common illnesses like hand-foot-and-mouth disease. This year, six pediatric cases have been identified at WakeMed, while other hospitals like Duke Health and UNC Health have not observed similar increases.

The rise in Ritter's Disease cases brings attention not only to the issues faced by children experiencing this painful condition but also to the awareness needed among parents and medical staff. Dr. Snyder's points on misdiagnosis highlight the complexity of pediatric illnesses, where visible symptoms can lead to dangerous misconceptions. The situation stresses the importance of understanding that unusual rashes combined with severe symptoms should prompt immediate medical evaluation. Awareness campaigns could serve to educate parents and caregivers, ensuring similar cases do not escalate without proper treatment.

Highlights

Increased awareness could help manage and reduce the spread of Ritter's disease among children.