Impetigo Flashcards
What is Impetigo and the two subtypes?
Common superficial bacterial infection which is sub-divided into bullous and non-bullous
What are the causes of impetigo?
Staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus pyogens or a combination of both
How does non-bullous impetigo present?
Lesion’s begin as thin walled vesicles/pustules which rupture quickly so is seldom seen on examination.
Once burst they release exudate and form golden/brown crusts which turn into erythema with heals within 2-3 weeks.
Lesion’s are commonly found on the face, limbs and flexures (axilla). Usually asymptomatic but can be itchy
How does Bullous impetigo present?
Flaccid, fluid filled vesicles and blisters (1-2cm in diameter), can persist for 2-3 days. Blisters can rupture leaving yellow/brown crusts. Healing occurs over 2-3 weeks. Common on face, trunk, limbs and flexures. Particularly widespread in infants. Systemic symptoms: Fever, lymphadenopathy, diarrhoea and weakness.
What is another bacteria which can cause impetigo?
Methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus
What is the treatment for localised non-bullous imetigo?
topical 1% hydrogen peroxide
What is the treatment for widespread non-bullous impetigo
Topical or oral antibiotics
What is the treatment for non-bullous impetigo in high risk patients or those systemically unwell
Oral antiobiotics
What is the treatment for bullous impetigo?
Oral antibiotics
What are the first and second line topical treatments for impetigo?
1st - Hydrogen peroxide gel
2nd - Fusidic acid
What are the first and second line oral treatments for impetigo?
1st - Flucloxacillin,
2nd - Clarithromycin or erythromycin in pregnant women.
