Bacterial Dermatoses in Sports

Bacterial skin dermatoses are common in athletes, and it is the role of team physicians to be able to recognize and treat such problems. Despite the skin's role as an efficient barrier, a moist environment coupled with frequent skin trauma and contact by athletes with equipment and other players predispose to acquiring infections. In the past 10 years, there has been a dramatic rise in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. This article discusses community-acquired MRSA infections among athletes and focuses on the recognition of, management of, and return-to-play guidelines for common bacterial skin infections in athletes. Some of the more unusual bacterial infections that may present in this population are also reviewed.