Final answer:
The staphylococcal exfoliative toxin causes scalded skin syndrome, a condition characterized by skin redness and peeling, especially in young children and infants. Therefore, the correct option is c
Step-by-step explanation:
The staphylococcal exfoliative toxin is responsible for the characteristic signs of scalded skin syndrome. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a superficial infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus that is most commonly seen in young children and infants. It involves bacterial exotoxins that first produce erythema and then severe peeling of the skin.
Necrotizing fasciitis is often caused by Group A streptococci (GAS), S. pyogenes, and not typically associated with staphylococcal toxins. Folliculitis, cellulitis, and impetigo are other types of skin infections associated with S. aureus, but they are not specifically linked to the exfoliative toxins that cause staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome.