Repeated excoriation of extremities can lead to which serious condition?

Repeated excoriation of the extremities can lead to MRSA cellulitis, which is a serious skin infection caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). When the skin is repeatedly scratched or damaged, it compromises the skin barrier, making it easier for bacteria to enter the body. MRSA is particularly concerning because it is resistant to many common antibiotics, which poses a higher risk of complications and requires specific treatment strategies.

The other conditions listed are generally not directly caused by excoriation. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches and is primarily considered an autoimmune disorder. Acne is related to the clogging of hair follicles and overproduction of sebum; while it can worsen with picking or scratching, excoriation itself is not a primary cause. Folliculitis, which is the inflammation of hair follicles, may be exacerbated by skin trauma, but it does not carry the same level of risk as MRSA cellulitis and is usually more localized rather than systemic. Therefore, repeated excoriation is a significant risk factor for developing serious infections like MRSA cellulitis.