What Is Impetigo?

Impetigo is a skin infection that is particularly common in healthy individuals. There are two bacteria that are primarily responsible for this skin condition.

One is Staphylococcus group and the other is streptococcus group. These bacteria commonly rest on the epidermis of the skin layer.

The infection occurs in case of an open wound or accidental cut that causes entry of bacteria into the lower layers of the skin. This leads to formation of blisters or sores.

Types of Impetigo

Impetigo is of two types. The kind of impetigo in which large blisters are formed carrying fluid is called bullous impetigo. This type of blisters does not cause pain.

Bullous impetigo is more common in small children. Blisters appear on the arms, legs and trunk and turn red due to itching. Bullous impetigo spreads very easily to other parts of the body. The fluid-filled blisters eventually burst and heal. They do not leave a scar behind.

The second type of impetigo is called impetigo contagiosa or non-bollous impetigo. This is more common than the bullous type and appears as red sores around mouth. These types of blisters itch a lot. Over a period of time, these heal and leave no scar.

It is important to remember that the patient must not touch or scratch at the infected area as it spreads very easily to other parts.

Men should not share their razor or other shaving equipments. One must wash the clothes and bed sheets every day in order to prevent infection to other parts of the body.

Treatment and Complication

Impetigo must be treated on time without any delay. Topical antibiotics are prescribed to deal with the infection.  The area is asked to be cleaned with soap and water 2-3 times in a day. The sores are often suppressed using saline water which acts as an antibacterial agent.

Complication with impetigo is rare but untreated impetigo may lead to serious complications. Maximum possibility is of cellulitis, scarlet fever, anemia, septicemia and guttate psoriasis.

In case of septicemia, life threatening condition may occur leading to immediate hospitalization. Complete course of medication should be done so that the infection fades away completely.