Pinta is a skin infection caused by the bacterium Treponema carateum , which causes the appearance of bluish spots and lesions on the skin.
Generally, Pinta is more frequent in children, adolescents or young adults and can be transmitted through direct contact with the infected patient's skin, especially when there are wounds or scratches.
Pinta is curable through the use of antibiotics, however, skin lesions can last for life.
Pinta Photos
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Pint symptoms
Pinta's symptoms appear about 21 days after contact with the infected patient and include:
- Red sores or blisters, as in the first photo; Bluish spots on the skin, as shown in the second image; Discoloration of the skin; Appearance of crusts and dryness in the skin; Itchy skin; Thicker skin on the soles of the feet and palms; Lumps in the neck, groin and armpits, due to lymph node swelling.
The diagnosis of Pinta is made by the dermatologist and consists of observation of symptoms, physical examination and blood test to detect the presence of the bacteria.
Treatment for paints
The treatment for Pinta is done by the dermatologist with the use of an injection of Penicillin that eliminates the bacteria, allowing the skin to heal naturally.
If the patient is allergic to penicillin, oral erythromycin can be used when the patient is less than 8 years old, or oral tetracycline in other cases.
