Impetigo: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial infection that causes a skin rash, usually on the face, arms, and legs. The symptoms of impetigo typically develop within 4-10 days after exposure to the bacteria and can include:

1. Small, itchy blisters or sores: The most common symptom of impetigo is the development of small, itchy blisters or sores on the skin. These blisters may be red, pink, or yellowish in color and may be filled with pus.
2. Crusting and scabbing: As the blisters burst, they may crust over and form scabs. This crust can be yellowish or brownish in color and may flake off easily.
3. Redness and swelling: The affected skin may become red, swollen, and inflamed.
4. Burning or stinging sensation: Some people may experience a burning or stinging sensation on the affected skin.
5. Fever: In some cases, impetigo can cause a mild fever.
6. General feeling of illness: Some people may experience a general feeling of illness or fatigue.
7. Headache: A headache may occur in some cases.
8. Swollen lymph nodes: The lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin may become swollen and tender.

Impetigo can occur in various forms, including:

• Non-bullous impetigo: This is the most common form of impetigo, characterized by small blisters that crust over and form scabs.
• Bullous impetigo: This form of impetigo is characterized by larger blisters that can be up to 1 cm in diameter.
• Ecthyma: This is a more severe form of impetigo that causes deep skin lesions that can lead to scarring.

If left untreated, impetigo can lead to complications such as:

• Secondary bacterial infections
• Scarring
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin)
• Eye involvement (in severe cases)

It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms of impetigo or if you have concerns about your skin health.

What are the causes of impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. The causes of impetigo include:

1. Bacterial infection: The bacteria that cause impetigo, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, are typically found on the skin and in the nose and throat.
2. Skin trauma: Impetigo can occur when the skin is damaged, such as from a cut, scrape, or insect bite.
3. Poor hygiene: Poor personal hygiene, such as not washing hands regularly, can increase the risk of getting impetigo.
4. Crowding: Living in crowded conditions, such as in dormitories or prisons, can increase the risk of getting impetigo.
5. Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications, are more susceptible to impetigo.
6. Allergies: Some people may be more prone to impetigo due to allergies or sensitivity to certain substances, such as soaps or detergents.
7. Skin conditions: Certain skin conditions, such as eczema, acne, or psoriasis, can increase the risk of developing impetigo.
8. Contact with contaminated surfaces: Touching contaminated surfaces or objects can spread the bacteria that cause impetigo.
9. Sharing personal items: Sharing personal items, such as towels or razors, with someone who has impetigo can spread the infection.
10. Poor wound care: Not properly cleaning and covering wounds can increase the risk of developing impetigo.

It’s important to note that impetigo is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person’s sores or by touching contaminated surfaces or objects.

How is the diagnosis of impetigo made?

The diagnosis of impetigo is typically made through a combination of a physical examination and laboratory tests. Here are the steps involved in diagnosing impetigo:

1. Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will examine the affected area(s) to look for characteristic signs of impetigo, such as:
   • Small, itchy blisters or sores
   • Crusting and scabbing
   • Redness and swelling
   • Blisters or sores that are filled with pus
2. Medical History: The healthcare provider will ask questions about the patient’s medical history, including:
   • When the symptoms started
   • How long the symptoms have been present
   • Any previous episodes of skin infections or allergies
   • Any recent travel or exposure to sick contacts
3. Laboratory Tests: Laboratory tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. These tests may include:
   • Gram stain: A Gram stain is a simple test that can be used to identify the type of bacteria present on the skin.
   • Culture: A culture involves taking a sample of the affected skin and growing it in a laboratory to identify the bacteria.
   • PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): PCR is a molecular test that can detect the genetic material of the bacteria.
4. Skin Scraping: A skin scraping may be performed to collect a sample of skin cells and bacteria from the affected area.
5. Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to collect a sample of tissue from the affected area for further examination.

The healthcare provider may also perform additional tests to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as:

• Scabies
• Ringworm
• Herpes simplex virus infection
• Cellulitis

Based on the results of these tests, the healthcare provider will diagnose impetigo and develop a treatment plan to help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

What is the treatment for impetigo?

The treatment for impetigo typically involves antibiotic medication, good hygiene practices, and self-care measures to help manage symptoms and promote healing. Here are the common treatment options:

1. Antibiotic Medication: Topical or oral antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat impetigo. The choice of antibiotic depends on the severity of the infection, the location of the affected area, and the patient’s medical history.
   • Topical antibiotics: Creams, ointments, or lotions applied directly to the affected area.
   • Oral antibiotics: Tablets or capsules taken by mouth.
2. Good Hygiene Practices:
   • Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
   • Avoid touching the affected area.
   • Clean and dress wounds properly.
   • Avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors, or clothing.
3. Self-Care Measures:
   • Apply a topical antiseptic or antibacterial cream or ointment to the affected area.
   • Keep the affected area clean and dry.
   • Use cool compresses or topical hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and inflammation.
   • Avoid scratching the affected area to prevent further irritation and infection.
4. Surgical Debridement: In severe cases of impetigo, surgical debridement may be necessary to remove dead skin tissue and promote healing.
5. Home Remedies: Some home remedies, such as applying honey, aloe vera, or tea tree oil to the affected area, may help soothe and calm the skin.

It’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotic treatment as directed by a healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication. This helps prevent relapse and reduces the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

In severe cases of impetigo, hospitalization may be necessary to treat complications such as cellulitis or sepsis. In these cases, IV antibiotics and close monitoring may be required.

It’s also important to note that impetigo can lead to complications such as:

• Scarring
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin)
• Eye involvement
• Skin abscesses

Therefore, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over time.