Impetigo

Impetigo is a contagious skin infection usually characterized by the production of blisters or sores on exposed areas of the skin, mostly the face and hands. It is one of the most common skin infections among kids. Impetigo usually affects preschool and school-age children, especially during summer.

There are two types of impetigo: bullous impetigo and nonbullous impetigo. This differentiation is made based on the manifestation of the disease. Bullous impetigo is characterized by the presence of superficial, fragile blisters mostly on the trunk and the extremities. On the other hand, nonbullous impetigo does not show blisters. Both types of impetigo can be extended to other parts of the body by scratching.

Causes Of Impetigo

Impetigo may be caused by the action of certain strains of streptococci and staphylococci. When caused by staphylococci, it usually appears in the area of the nose, and it is frequent to find it within the nose itself. It then spreads under the skin to other areas and causes the visible dermatologic symptoms.

Streptococci often appear in the skin first and cause impetigo. Leaving it untreated may allow the infecting agent to enter the body and cause other diseases, like difficulty swallowing or even kidney disease.

Symptoms Of Impetigo

Symptoms of impetigo include itching and sometimes pain on the affected areas, especially in nonbullous impetigo. In bullous impetigo, there are blisters full of fluid present on the face, trunk or limbs, as well as in the diaper area. The blisters easily break and leak, producing a raw, moist sore that may form scabbing.

Treatment Of Impetigo

The most effective treatment against both bullous impetigo and nonbullous impetigo is an antibiotic-based therapy.

Staphylococcal infections are best treated with topical antibiotic ointments. Streptococcal impetigo may respond to this therapy as well, but it often reappears. Draining the bacteria-filled fluid present under the scabs can help antibiotics work faster. Washing the skin with warm water and antibacterial soap can help achieve this.
If no progress is observed, then complementing the action of topical ointments and creams with oral antibiotics is recommended and encouraged. They are also suggested for those cases of impetigo in which the disease is widely spread throughout the body.

Prevention Of Impetigo

As impetigo is a contagious disease, the best way to prevent it is to avoid contact with people suffering from this disease. Keeping your kid’s fingernails clipped and clean and teaching him not to scratch can prevent possible transference and spread of the infecting agent. Avoiding the use of towels and other objects that may have been in physical touch with an infected child is also a way to prevent impetigo.

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