Impetigo overview
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Impetigo overview On the Web |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Impetigo is a contagious superficial, bacterial skin infection most common among children age 2–6 years. People who play close contact sports such as rugby, American football and wrestling are also susceptible, regardless of age. The name derives from the Latin impetere ("assail"). It is also known as school sores. Skin is normally colonized with a large number of pathogens. When the pathogens increase in number on the skin or when there is a break in the continuity ofthe skin, they can lead to an infection.[1][2]
Pathophysiology
The infection is spread by direct contact with lesions or with nasal carriers. The incubation period is 1–3 days. Dried streptococci in the air are not infectious to intact skin. Scratching may spread the lesions.
Causes
Differentiating Impetigo from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Impetigo is often associated with insect bites, cuts, and other forms of trauma to the skin.
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
People who suffer from cold sores have shown higher chances of suffering from impetigo. Those who normally suffer from cold sores should consult a doctor if normal treatment has no effect.
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Xray
Xrays do not contribute in the diagnosis of impetigo.
CT Scan
CT scan does not contribute in the diagnosis of impetigo.
MRI
MRI does not contribute in the diagnosis of impetigo.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound does not contribute in the diagnosis of impetigo.
Other Imaging Findings
Other imaging findings do not contribute in the diagnosis of impetigo.
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Topical or oral antibiotics are usually prescribed.
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
The measure for secondary prevention of impetigo include avoidance of scratching, keeping the lesions covered, nails must be cut to avoid spread and keepig towel separate is also recommended.
References
- ↑ Oumeish I, Oumeish OY, Bataineh O (2000). "Acute bacterial skin infections in children". Clin Dermatol. 18 (6): 667–78. PMID 11173202.
- ↑ Ibrahim F, Khan T, Pujalte GG (2015). "Bacterial Skin Infections". Prim Care. 42 (4): 485–99. doi:10.1016/j.pop.2015.08.001. PMID 26612370.