Skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) care

SSTI infections can range from mild to life-threatening. Some infections clear up quickly with treatment, while others like methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can spread, return often, and cause lasting health problems if not managed carefully.

Penn Medicine’s infectious disease care specialists treat all types of SSTI infections, including bacterial infections on skin, deep tissue infections, and infected soft tissue caused by MRSA. You’ll find care for both common and complex cases, following the latest SSTI guidelines. Our team uses a multi-pronged approach that may include targeted antibiotic therapy, surgical drainage, and prevention strategies. We’re one of the only clinics in the region dedicated to the complete care of recurrent SSTI infections.

Dealing with a skin infection can be stressful, especially if it keeps coming back. At Penn Medicine, our SSTI clinic brings together infectious disease experts, dermatologists, and other specialists to give you coordinated care and support. Our goal is to treat the infection and help you lower your risk of future problems.

Our services and support include:

• Customized treatment: We create targeted antibiotic therapy based on your specific infection history.
• Prevention strategies: We use decolonization methods and provide education to help reduce the chance of reinfection.
• Team-based care: We work with dermatology for procedures like incision and drainage when needed.
• Infection control: We offer testing and treatment for household members and provide guidance to families to help prevent the spread of infections.