There are certain features in a wound that suggest that it may be infected:

• Increased exudate, pain or swelling
• Increased redness or warmth compared with surrounding skin
• Odour
• Bleeds easily
• Fever: do not use rectal thermometers.

Poor nutrition and anaemia reduces the resistance to infections, whilst some patients with severe EB may also have immunological defects. Infected wounds should be treated promptly. Consult with your primary care practitioner early. Some medications may not be suitable for the newborn eg silver sulphadiazine (SSD).