Dermatology

Impetigo

What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a superficial infection of the skin, caused by bacteria. The lesions are often grouped and have a red base. The lesions open and become crusty and have a "honey-color," which is typical of impetigo. Impetigo is contagious and can be spread throughout a household, with children reinfecting themselves or other family members.

What causes impetigo?

Common bacteria, some of which are found normally on the skin, cause impetigo. When the bacteria enter an open area in the skin, the infection can occur. The most common bacteria that cause impetigo include the following:

• group A ß - hemolytic streptococcus
• Staphylococcus aureus

Impetigo is more common in children, but adults may also have the infection. Impetigo is made worse by poor hygiene and warm temperatures.

What are the symptoms of impetigo?

Impetigo usually occurs on the face, neck, arms, and limbs, but the lesions may appear on any part of the body. Impetigo starts as a small vesicle, or fluid-filled lesion. The lesion then ruptures and the fluid drains leaving areas that are covered with the honey-colored crusts. The lesions may all look different, with different sizes and shapes. Your child may also have swollen lymph nodes (small lumps that are located mostly in the neck, arm, under the arm, and in the groin area). The lymph nodes become enlarged when your child's body is fighting an infection.

The symptoms of impetigo may resemble other skin conditions. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.

How is impetigo diagnosed?

Impetigo is usually diagnosed based on a complete medical history and physical examination of your child. The lesions of impetigo are unique, and usually allow for a diagnosis based simply on physical examination. In addition, your child's physician may order a culture of your child's lesion to confirm the diagnosis and the type of bacteria that is present.

Treatment for impetigo:

Specific treatment for impetigo will be determined by your child's physician based on:

• your child's age, overall health, and medical history
• extent of the condition
• your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the condition
• your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

• For a child with many lesions, oral antibiotics may be prescribed.
  
  
• If your child only has a few lesions, your child's physician may prescribe a topical antibiotic applied directly to the lesions.
  
  
• Your child should wash daily with an antibacterial soap to help decrease the chance of spreading the infection.
  
  
• Proper hand washing technique by everyone in the household is very important to help decrease the chance of spreading the infection.
  
  
• Keep your child's fingernails short to help decrease the chance of scratching and spreading the infection.
  
  
• Avoid sharing of garments, towels, and other household items to prevent the spreading of the infection.