Impetigo – SP Medifort Hospital

Impetigo Treatment

Impetigo Treatment In Trivandrum

Impetigo is a common, highly contagious bacterial infection of the skin that primarily affects the surface layers. It often starts as small red spots or blisters that break easily and form characteristic yellow‑honey crusts. It’s most frequently seen in young children but can occur in people of all ages.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of impetigo?

Impetigo often begins as:

Itching and mild soreness.
Red bumps or blisters.
Blisters that burst easily.
Ecthyma.
Spread of sores.
Bullous form.
Honey‑colored crusts.

What are the different types of impetigo?

Non-Bullous Impetigo: The most common form, starting as small red bumps or blisters that break easily and form yellowish, honey-colored crusts, usually around the nose and mouth.
Bullous Impetigo: A less common form caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which produces toxins that lead to large, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters can burst easily, leaving red, raw skin underneath. It most often affects infants and young children and usually appears on the trunk, arms, or legs.
Ecthyma: A more severe and deeper form of impetigo that extends into the deeper layers of the skin. It causes painful sores or ulcers that heal slowly and may leave permanent scars after recovery.

What causes impetigo?

Impetigo is caused by bacterial infection, usually when bacteria enter broken or irritated skin. The main bacteria involved are

Staphylococcus aureus : The most common cause, can produce toxins that cause blisters (bullous impetigo).
Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus): Can cause non-bullous impetigo and sometimes more serious complications.

Diagnosis of Impetigo

Diagnosis of a impetigo usually includes:

Clinical Examination: Doctors identify impetigo by the honey-colored crusts and blisters on the skin.
Patient History: Recent skin injuries, insect bites, or contact with infected individuals are considered.
Antibiotic sensitivity test: This helps determine which antibiotics will be most effective, especially in cases resistant to standard treatment.
Bacterial culture: A swab from the lesion is sent to a lab to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
Differential Diagnosis: Other skin conditions like herpes or fungal infections are ruled out.

Impetigo risk factors

Factors that increase the risk of impetigo include:

Skin Injuries : Cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or other skin breaks allow bacteria to enter.
Age: Most common in young children (2–5 years).
Close Contact: Being in crowded places like schools, daycare, or playgrounds makes it easier for the infection to spread from person to person.
Hot and Humid Weather: Warm, moist conditions make it easier for bacteria to thrive on the skin.
Weakened Immune System : People with chronic illnesses or weakened immunity, like diabetes, are more vulnerable.
Existing Skin Conditions : If someone has eczema, rashes, or irritated skin, the skin barrier is weaker, making infection more likely.
Poor Hygiene: Not washing hands regularly or sharing personal items like towels can increase the chance of catching the infection.

Treatment options available for impetigo

Treatment focuses on eliminating the infection, preventing its spread, and promoting healing. Mild cases may resolve on their own, but using antibiotics speeds recovery and reduces contagion.

Topical Antibiotics: Applied directly to sores, creams like mupirocin quickly clear bacteria in mild, localized infections.

Oral Antibiotics: Pills or liquid medications used for severe or widespread infections, helping to eliminate bacteria throughout the body.

Wound Care and Hygiene: Clean sores gently, keep them covered, and avoid scratching to promote healing and prevent spread.

Supportive Measures: Practice good hygiene, wash hands often, and avoid sharing personal items to prevent infection and its spread.