Impetigo Flashcards
What is Impetigo?
Superficial bacterial skin infection
What is the main bacterial cause of impetigo?
Staphylococcus aureus
What is a less common bacterial cause of impetigo?
Streptococcus pyogenes
Where on the body does impetigo usually occur?
Face
Flexures
Limbs not covered by clothing.
Is impetigo contagious?
Yes
How does impetigo occur?
Bacteria enters due to a break in the skin
What 2 ways can impetigo present?
Bullous
Non-bullous
Where does non-bullous impetigo usually occur?
Around the nose or mouth
How does non-bullous impetigo usually present?
Exudate from the lesions dries to form a “golden crust”
Patient isn’t systemically unwell
How does bullous impetigo present?
1– 2 cm fluid filled vesicles to form on the skin.
The vesicles burst forming a “golden crust”
These lesions can be painful and itchy.
What is widespread bullous impetigo called?
Staphylococcus scalded skin syndrome.
How is Impetigo diagnosed?
Swabs of the vesicles can confirm the diagnosis
What is the management of impetigo if patient is systemically well?
Hydrogen peroxide 1% cream
What is the management of extensive impetigo?
Oral flucloxacillin (oral erythromycin if penicillin-allergic)
How long should someone with impetigo be excluded from school?
Until the lesions are crusted and healed or 48 hours after commencing antibiotic treatment
