Summary about Disease
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection most common among children, but it can affect people of all ages. It typically presents as red sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, and on the hands and feet. These sores rupture, ooze, and form a honey-colored crust. Impetigo is usually not serious and clears up with antibiotic treatment.
Symptoms
Red, itchy sores, most often around the nose and mouth
Sores that quickly rupture and ooze
Honey-colored crusts that form over the sores
Possible blisters filled with fluid (bullous impetigo)
Painless sores
Possible swollen lymph nodes
Causes
Impetigo is caused by bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus or *Streptococcus pyogenes* (group A streptococcus). It can spread through:
Direct contact with sores or fluid from sores
Contact with contaminated items, such as towels, bedding, or toys
It can also occur when bacteria enter the skin through cuts, insect bites, or other injuries.
Medicine Used
Topical antibiotics: Mupirocin (Bactroban) or retapamulin (Altabax) ointment or cream are commonly prescribed for mild cases.
Oral antibiotics: For more severe cases or widespread infection, oral antibiotics such as cephalexin (Keflex), dicloxacillin, or clindamycin are used.
Is Communicable
Yes, impetigo is highly contagious.
Precautions
Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water.
Keep sores clean and covered with a bandage.
Avoid touching or scratching sores.
Do not share towels, bedding, clothing, or personal items with others.
Wash contaminated items in hot, soapy water.
Keep children with impetigo home from school or daycare until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and the sores are no longer draining.
How long does an outbreak last?
With antibiotic treatment, impetigo usually clears up within 7-10 days. Without treatment, it can last for several weeks and has a higher risk of spreading to others or developing complications.
How is it diagnosed?
Impetigo is usually diagnosed based on a visual examination of the sores. A doctor may take a sample of the fluid from a sore to test for bacteria (culture) if the diagnosis is uncertain or if the infection is not responding to treatment.
Timeline of Symptoms
Initial Stage: Small red sores appear, often resembling pimples or insect bites.
Within a few days: Sores rupture, ooze clear fluid or pus, and begin to spread.
Later Stage: Honey-colored crusts form over the sores. New sores may continue to appear.
With treatment: Sores begin to heal and crusts fall off within a few days of starting antibiotics.
Important Considerations
Complications from impetigo are rare but can include cellulitis (a deeper skin infection), kidney problems (post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis), and, very rarely, staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome.
Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the spread of infection.
Complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if the sores appear to be healing.
If symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, consult a doctor.
Good hygiene practices are crucial for preventing impetigo.