Pseudomonas Whirlpool Dermatitis

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa skin infections developed in four children and their parents after use of a recreational whirlpool. These patients were carefully followed throughout the course of their illnesses. The incubation period was two to five days. The skin lesions included erythematous macules and papules, pustules, and nodules. The severity of the illness varied from a few scattered pustules in one patient to an extensive truncal rash, malaise, and fever in another patient. P. aeruginosa was recovered from skin lesions and the whirlpool water. Gram stains from two patients revealed polymorphonuclear leukocytes and gram-negative rods. In all patients, the rash improved within seven days and local application of povidone-iodine did not appear beneficial.