What is exfoliative toxin?

Answer 1

Exfoliative Toxins (ET's, ETA and ETB so far) are specific proteinic (30 kDa) serine proteases that hydrolyze desmosomal (connecting) proteins which bond the skin layers together. These are toxins created by Staphylococcus aureus (SA), that are the sole cause of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS). ETA and ETB do not seem to always appear together, with ETB appearing in Japan, and ETA in the US, Europe and Africa.

SSSS, noted in the late 1800's (von Ritter's disease) but not associated with SA or toxins therefrom until the later part of the 20th century, produce injuries that are very hard to discriminate from chemical or thermal burns. Most prevalent in infants, then in the elderly, the effects are very much like burns as is the treatment for SSSS.

Answer 2

Exfoliative toxin is a protein produced by certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that causes skin exfoliation, or peeling. It breaks down a protein that helps cells stick together in the skin, leading to the separation of skin layers and causing symptoms such as redness, blistering, and peeling of the skin. Conditions such as staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome are associated with exfoliative toxins.