Impetigo Flashcards
What is impetigo?
A superficial bacterial skin infection usually caused by either staphylococcus aureus or streptococcus pyogenes.
What can cause impetigo?
Primary infection or a complication of an existing skin condition such as eczema, scabies or insect bites.
Where do impetigo lesions tend to appear?
Face, flexures and limbs not covered by clothing
How is impetigo spread?
By direct contact with discharges from scabs of an infected person.
Spread through skin by scratching.
Can also spread via toys, clothing, equipment and the environment.
What is the incubation period of impetigo?
4-10 days
What are the features of an impetigo rash?
‘Golden’, crusted skin lesions typically found around the mouth
Very contagious
What is the management of limited/localised impetigo?
Hydrogen peroxide 1% cream
Topical antibiotic cream - topical fusidic acid, mupirocin.
What is the treatment of extensive impetigo disease?
Oral flucloxacillin
Oral erythromycin
How should school exclusion be conducted in impetigo?
Excluded from school until lesions crusted and healed or 48 hours after commencing antibiotics
