Overview
Complication
Complications from impetigo are rare but can include:
Cellulitis: A potentially serious infection that affects the tissues beneath the skin, which can spread to the lymph nodes and bloodstream.
Kidney Problems: Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, a condition that can damage the kidneys, is a rare complication.
Scarring: Sores, especially those from ecthyma, can leave scars.
Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome: A serious condition caused by staph bacteria, more common in infants and young children.
Prevention
How Can Impetigo Be Prevented?
Preventing impetigo involves maintaining good personal hygiene and taking precautions to avoid spreading the infection. Recommendations include:
Washing Hands: Regular and thorough handwashing with soap and water.
Keeping Skin Clean: Cleaning cuts, scrapes, and insect bites promptly with soap and water.
Avoiding Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, clothing, or bedding with an infected person.
Covering Sores: Use nonstick bandages to cover sores and prevent the spread of bacteria.
Good Hygiene Practices: Keep fingernails short to prevent damage from scratching, and encourage regular handwashing.
Living with Impetigo
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you or your child have symptoms of impetigo. It’s important to seek medical advice if the infection does not improve with initial treatment or if it recurs frequently. A doctor can provide appropriate treatment and advice on preventing the spread of the infection.
Self-Care Measures
For minor infections, over-the-counter antibiotic ointments can be tried, although prescription medication is usually more effective. Keeping the affected area clean, applying prescribed medication as directed, and covering the area with a bandage can help manage symptoms and prevent the spread of the infection.
Impetigo vs. Other Conditions
Impetigo vs. Cold Sores
Both impetigo and cold sores cause blisters, but they are caused by different pathogens. Impetigo is bacterial, while cold sores are viral (caused by the herpes simplex virus). Cold sores usually occur around the mouth and consist of small blisters, whereas impetigo can form larger blisters and spread to various parts of the face and body.
Impetigo vs. Weeping Eczema
Impetigo is a bacterial infection, while weeping eczema is a type of dermatitis. Impetigo causes crusty, honey-colored sores and blisters, while weeping eczema causes blisters filled with clear or straw-colored fluid. Eczema blisters can be red or purple and may ooze fluid, while impetigo sores are more likely to be yellowish and crusty.
Risk Factors
Who is at Risk for Impetigo?
Age: Most common in children aged 2 to 5 years, but can occur at any age.
Close Contact: Spread easily in crowded settings such as schools, daycare centers, and sports involving skin-to-skin contact.
Climate: More common in warm, humid weather.
Skin Conditions: Children with eczema, chickenpox, or other skin conditions are more susceptible.
Compromised Immunity: Individuals with weakened immune systems, including those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy, are at higher risk.
Conclusion
Impetigo is a common and treatable skin infection that primarily affects children but can occur at any age. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for managing the infection effectively. Preventive measures, such as maintaining good personal hygiene and avoiding contact with infected individuals, can help reduce the risk of impetigo. If you suspect impetigo, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
References
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Impetigo. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12232-impetigo
DermNet. (n.d.). Impetigo. Retrieved from https://dermnetnz.org/topics/impetigo
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Impetigo. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/impetigo/symptoms-causes/syc-20352352
National Health Service (NHS). (n.d.). Impetigo. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/impetigo/
