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Staphylococcus aureus infection of the feet following fish pedicure

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Abstract

We report a case of Staphylococcus aureus infection of the feet that appeared after a “fish pedicure” (immersion of the feet in a tank with the fish Garra rufa, that nibbles off dead skin). Clinical picture was characterized by maceration, purulent discharge, scales, crusts, itching and burning sensation. Bacteriological examinations were positive for Staphylococcus aureus. Mycological examinations were negative. The patient was successfully treated with ciprofloxacin. Only one case of skin foot infection after fish pedicure was reported so far. Fish pedicure can be a potentially dangerous procedure in immunocompromised or diabetic patients.

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On behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, IRCCS Foundation, Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122, Milan, Italy

    S. Veraldi, G. Nazzaro & E. Çuka

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  1. S. Veraldi
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  2. G. Nazzaro
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  3. E. Çuka
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Correspondence to G. Nazzaro.

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Veraldi, S., Nazzaro, G. & Çuka, E. Staphylococcus aureus infection of the feet following fish pedicure. Infection 42, 925–926 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s15010-014-0622-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s15010-014-0622-4

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