Impetigo

Pathogenesis

incidence/prevalence

Risk Factors

β-hemolytic streptococci

Staphylococcus aureus

Anyone is at risk

More common in areas of hot, humid weather

Most common in children 2 to 5 years old

More common in the summer

Mild winters (subtropics) or wet and dry seasons (tropics)

People with scabies infection are at greater risk

People participating in activities where cuts or scrapes are common are at risk

Contact sports players

Close contact with another person with impetigo is the most common risk factor

Family member who has it

Crowded situations including schools and daycare centers

The bacteria can then spread to others if someone touches those sores

The group A strep infects the skin and then causes sores

The overgrowth of this bacteria causes skin diseases and bacteria that are normally found on the surface of the skin can then become a disease.

Normal skin is colonized by large numbers of bacteria that live as commensals in its surface or in hair follicles

impetigo makes up 10% of skin issues seen in children

This is the most common bacterial skin infection

impetigo is the third most common skin disease among children

Citations

Pereira L. B. (2014). Impetigo - review. Anais brasileiros de dermatologia, 89(2), 293–299. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20142283

Impetigo: All you need to know. (2020, May 29). Retrieved April 10, 2021, from https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/impetigo.html

Diagnostics

Clinical Manifestations

Treatments

Dermatologist is able to make a diagnosis by the look of the skin

If the dermatologist thinks that the infection could be widespread, a blood test may be needed

Lab tests may be needed for diagnosis or for information involving treatment

Dermatologist takes a sample from the blister and finds out what kind of bacteria is causing the infection

Red sores clustered around the nose and mouth

Sores can rupture and ooze for several days

Face, arms and legs are infected

Can start as a minor cut, insect bite, or a rash from eczema

Sores can grow into blisters, ooze and burst, then form a yellow crust

Sores can be itchy and painful

Antibiotics are effective for treating impetigo

Which antibiotic you are prescribed depends on how widespread or severe the blisters are

If the impetigo is only on a small area of the skin then topical antibiotics is the best treatment. (Mupriocin cream or ointment (Bactroban or Centany) and retapamulin ointment)

If the impetigo is severe or widespread, the doctor can prescribe oral antibiotics such as amoxicillin/clavulante (Augmentin), cephalosporins or clindamycin

Oral antibiotics can cause more effects than topical antibiotics including nausea.

With treatment usually the infection heals within 7 to 10 days.

Skin looks red and crusty

111 million children from developing countries have contracted impetigo