The exfoliative toxin is responsible for a skin disease called staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. This exotoxin, exfoliatin is produced by Staphylococcus aureus and it induces the formation of fluid-filled blisters with easily ruptured, thin walls, usually in infants. Exfoliatin has the protease activity which causes peeling of the skin by destroying adhesion between keratinocytes (skin cells).
