Pinta is a skin infection caused by the bacterium Treponema carateum, which causes bluish spots and lesions on the skin.
Generally, Pinta is more common in children, adolescents or young adults and can be transmitted through direct contact with the skin of the infected patient, especially when there are wounds or scratches.
Pinta has a cure through the use of antibiotics, however, the lesions on the skin can last for the rest of life.
Photos of Pinta
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Symptoms of Pinta
The symptoms of Pinta appear about 21 days after contact with the infected patient and include:
- Wounds or blisters reddish, as in the first photo;
- Bluish spots on the skin, as shown in the second image;
- Skin discoloration;
- Appearance of crusts and dryness on the skin;
- Itchy skin;
- Thicker skin on the soles of the feet and on the palms of the hands;
- Lumps in the neck, groin and armpits due to swollen lymph nodes.
The diagnosis of Pinta is made by the dermatologist and consists of the observation of symptoms, physical examination and blood test to detect the presence of the bacteria.
Treatment for PT
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.
In case the patient is allergic to penicillin, oral erythromycin may be used, when the patient is less than 8 years old, or oral tetracycline, in other cases.
