Impetigo: A contagious, superficial skin
infection. It is cause by a beta-hemolytic streptococcus which produces
a non bullous impetigo. Coagulase – positive Staphylococcus aureus
causes bullous impetigo. Poor hygiene, anemia, malnutrition, impaired
skin integrity increase the risk of developing this disease. Impetigo spreads
most easily among infants, young children, and the elderly. It can complicate
other skin conditions marked by open lesions, such as chicken pox and
eczema.
Symptoms:
Streptococcal impetigo : usually begins with a red spot
on the skin that is not raised above the surface (macula) then turns
into a blister like (vesicle), becoming pustular (pus containing
lesion) within a matter of hours. When the vesicle breaks, a characteristic
thick, honey – colored crust forms from the exudate.
Pruritus (itching), burning, and regional lymphadenopathy.
Staphylococcal impetigo: begins with a thin – walled vesicle
opens and a thin, clear crust forms from the exudate.
The lesion consists of a central clearing circumscribed by an outer rim,
much like a ringworm lesion, commonly appears on the face or other exposed
areas, and painless pruritus.
Treatment:
Systemic antibiotic therapy
Removal of the exudate by washing the lesions 2 to 3 times a day with
soap and water
For stubborn crusts, warm soaks or compresses of normal saline or a
diluted soap solution may help.
Note: Impetigo is bacterial infection, and is highly contagious,
see your doctor promptly for treatment and to prevent the spread of infection.