Teenage Girl in Vietnam Dies from Severe Infection After Popping Pimples

A 15-year-old girl in Vietnam died after developing a severe bacterial infection linked to popping pimples and applying a topical cream of unknown origin.

The case was confirmed by the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi and has since raised serious concerns about unsafe skincare practices among young people.

Admitted to Hospital in Critical Condition, Passed Away at Home

According to 24h.com.vn, the teenager was admitted to the hospital in critical condition, suffering from septic shock and multi-organ failure.

Photo for illustration purposes only. Via Canva

Despite intensive care, including mechanical ventilation and continuous blood filtration, her condition did not improve. Her family later requested to bring her home, where she sadly passed away.

Infection Entered Through Inflamed Acne Wounds

According to reports, doctors confirmed that the cause of the infection was Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium that entered through inflamed acne wounds on her face.

The girl had manually popped her pimples and then applied a topical product without a verified origin.

Bacteria Spread Through Lungs and Brain

Additionally, it was reported that the bacteria spread rapidly through her body, damaging both her brain and lungs. Despite aggressive treatment, doctors were unable to control the infection.

What is Staphylococcus aureus?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Staphylococcus aureus (or “staph”) is a bacterium found on the skin or in the noses of about 30% of people.

While it usually causes no harm, it can lead to infections, especially when it enters the body through wounds or broken skin.

In healthcare settings, staph infections can become severe or even fatal, potentially causing sepsis, pneumonia, endocarditis (heart infection), or bone infections.

People with chronic illnesses, weakened immune systems, or those undergoing surgery or intensive care are at higher risk.

Staph infections often resemble pimples and are typically treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed promptly.

The Hidden Danger Zone on the Face

Medical experts emphasized that the area between the nose bridge and the corners of the mouth, often called the “danger triangle,” is particularly vulnerable to serious infections.

Photo for illustration purposes only. Courtesy of Cleveland Clinic

This area contains blood vessels that connect directly to the brain, making it easy for bacteria to travel internally when hygiene is not strictly maintained.

Squeezing pimples in this region increases the risk of complications such as cellulitis (a spreading skin infection), sepsis (the body’s overwhelming response to an infection), and potentially death.

Medical Experts Warn Against At-Home Treatment

According to Hoa Học Trò, Dr. Nguyễn Trung Cấp, Deputy Director of the hospital, explained that a significant number of severe infections have begun with habits like improper pimple-popping or the use of unverified topical treatments.

Dermatologist Dr. Nguyễn Thị Hòa also advised that people should not attempt to squeeze inflamed pimples themselves and instead seek help from qualified medical professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Proper Skincare Can Save Lives

Soha.vn noted that experts recommend avoiding skincare products with unknown ingredients, particularly those not prescribed by a doctor.

They also stressed the importance of maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding frequent face touching, and using non-comedogenic cosmetics to help prevent infections.