Lyell's disease. View of erythema and blistering on a two-year-old child's leg. This is caused by Lyell's disease, an infection with Staphylococcus bacteria. This is a minor staphylococcal infection producing an epidermolytic toxin (a substance which causes loosening of the epidermis). This results in extensive skin erythema (reddening) and blistering; the upper layers of the skin are shed in sheets. Most affected children eventually recover, although antibiotic drugs may be prescribed.