Impetigo - How Can It Be Managed?

Impetigo is a skin infection triggered by the Streptococcus or the Staphylococcus bacteria. Children are more prone to this bacterial skin infection though adults may also be affected. In the case of Impetigo, the bacteria have been found to gain access to the host body through the skin area or surface that has suffered an injury or an irritation due to certain dermatological conditions such as poison ivy or eczema or other conditions that include burns, insect bites or even cuts. There are instances when a person (children or adult) develops Impetigo without any prior skin injury or infection.

In Impetigo Contagiosa, tiny red blisters or sores appear around the nose or mouth that usually burst open within a quick span of time. The ruptured blisters continue to ooze fluids (at times pus) for few days before forming a yellowish-brown thick golden crust. They may be itching and redness but seldom any pain. In extreme cases, there may be fever along with swollen glands.

The application of Topical antibiotics (creams and ointments) such as Bactroban or Mupirocin on the sores can provide relief, thereby speeding up the healing process. It is best to wear gloves while applying the ointment on the affected skin area. Since Impetigo is contagious, do not share your belongings with anyone, not even the family members. Even if your child shows signs of improvement, keep them at home until they have recovered fully.

Impetigo that mostly affects children and infants are of three types- Non-bullous (also known as Impetigo Contagiosa), Bullous (Bullous Impetigo) and Ecthyma. Impetigo Contagiosa is the more contagious form of impetigo triggered by Staphylococcus aureus or group a -Hemolytic Streptococci. Impetigo Contagiosa is characterized by the appearance of tiny red sores or blisters around the nose or mouth. Bullous Impetigo is less contagious and is characterized by blisters that may be large or medium-sized. In Ecthyma (a severe and rare type of impetigo), the blisters are painful and usually progress into deep ulcers.