OTC - impetigo

Question 1

2 different types of impetigo ?

Answer 1

NON- BULLOUS IMPETIGO

• starts as small red sores around nose and mouth
• quickly develops into blisters and burst
• can be itchy but otherwise asymtpomatic; not painful
• golden crust lesions

BULLOUS IMPETIGO

• common in neonates
• starts as fluid-filled blisters on trunk or arms/legs
• quickly spreads before bursting
• can be painful and itchy
• fever and swollen lymph glands is more common
• golden crust lesions

Question 2

Referral criteria?

Answer 2

• all cases need antibiotics
• topical fusidic acid cream for mild cases in small area
• oral flucloxacillin if severe or widespread

Question 3

OTC product

Answer 3

if required: paracetamol

Question 4

Advice?

Answer 4

• contagious; stay away from school until rash clears
• hygeine measures: do not share towels, do not touch lesions
• cut nails short; scratching causes secondary infection and scarring