A review and report of blistering distal dactylitis due to Staphylococcus aureus in two HIV-positive men.

Blistering distal dactylitis (BDD) is attributed to infection with group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus (SA). Although initially described in children, BDD subsequently has also been reported in adults. It occurs in the immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals. This report notes two HIV-positive men with BDD, one with bullae and the other with erosions caused by SA, effectively treated with amoxicillin trihydrate/clavulanate potassium. This report highlights the reasoning behind adjusting empiric therapy to account for SA, that BDD can present with erosions, and that the course and presentation of BDD in HIV-positive patients mirrors that of non HIV-positive patients.