Impetigo

Impetigo

What is impetigo?

Impetigo is an infection of the skin. When it affects just the surface, it’s called superficial impetigo. Impetigo can also affect deeper parts of the skin. This is called ecthyma. It may occur on healthy skin. Or it may occur where the skin was injured by a cut, scrape, or insect bite.

Impetigo is most common in children from ages 2 to 5. It is contagious. This means it’s easily passed from one person to another. It can be spread around a household. Children can infect other family members, and can reinfect themselves.

What causes impetigo?

Impetigo is caused by bacteria. The bacteria that can cause it include:

·         Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus

·         Staphylococcus aureus

Who is at risk for impetigo?

Impetigo is more common in children, but adults may also have the infection. A child is more likely to get impetigo if he or she:

·         Has close contact with to others with impetigo

·         Does not keep clean (poor hygiene)

·         Is in warm, moist (humid) air

·         Has other skin conditions, such as scabies or eczema

What are the symptoms of impetigo?

Symptoms can occur a bit differently in each child. They also vary depending on which bacteria caused it. Symptoms can include:

·         Red bumps

·         Sores that are filled with fluid, draining fluid, or crusted over

·         Areas that are red, swollen, and may itch

·         Swelling of nearby lymph glands (nodes)

The bumps or sores can occur anywhere on the body. But they are most common on the face, arms, and legs.

The symptoms of impetigo can be like other health conditions. Make sure your child sees his or her healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is impetigo diagnosed?

The healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. He or she will give your child a physical exam. A sample of the pus from the sores may be sent to a lab. This is called a culture. It’s done to see what type of bacteria caused the infection. It can help the doctor decide the best antibiotic for treatment.

How is impetigo treated?

Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Treatment may include:

·         Prescription antibiotic cream or ointment. This is most often done for mild impetigo. Over-the-counter antibiotic cream or ointment is usually not advised.

·         Antibiotic pills or liquid by mouth (oral). This is most often advised if your child has several areas of impetigo or ecthyma. It may also be advised if more than one person in a household has impetigo.

·         Cleaning and bandaging. You will need to gently washing affected areas of your child’s skin with mild soap and water. Cover areas that are draining fluid. Make sure to wash your hands before and after caring for your child’s impetigo.

What are possible complications of impetigo?

Possible complications of impetigo can include:

·         Worsening or spreading of the infection

·         Scarring, which is more common with ecthyma

Impetigo caused by beta-hemolytic strep bacteria can cause:

·         Kidney damage (poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis)

·         Fever, joint, and other problems (rheumatic fever)