What You Need to Know About Impetigo: The Common Skin Infection
What You Need to Know About Impetigo: The Common Skin Infection
What's This About?
Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection, especially common in young children. Let's dive into what it is, how it spreads, and what you can do about it.
Contents
- What is Impetigo?
- Types of Impetigo
- Possible Complications
What is Impetigo?
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection mostly affecting children aged two to five, but adults can catch it too. It's caused by bacteria invading the skin, either directly or through minor skin injuries like cuts or insect bites. The disease thrives in warm, humid environments and spreads easily in crowded places with poor hygiene.
Types of Impetigo
There are three main types of impetigo: nonbullous impetigo, bullous impetigo, and ecthyma. Nonbullous impetigo is the most common, starting as red sores that quickly burst and form a yellow-brown crust. Bullous impetigo is characterized by larger blisters filled with yellow fluid, while ecthyma is a deeper infection that causes painful ulcers.
Possible Complications
Though impetigo is usually mild, it can sometimes lead to complications. Poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis is a kidney condition that may occur after a streptococcal skin infection. Additionally, acute rheumatic fever has been linked to streptococcal skin infections in certain communities.
FAQs
What causes impetigo?
Impetigo is caused by bacterial infections, mainly Staphylococcus aureus and sometimes Streptococcus pyogenes.
How is impetigo spread?
Impetigo spreads through direct contact with the sores or via infected personal items like towels.
Can adults get impetigo?
Yes, while more common in children, adults can also contract impetigo.
What are the symptoms of impetigo?
Symptoms include red sores, blisters, and a yellow crust that forms over broken blisters.
The Bottom Line
Impetigo is common but manageable; understanding its causes and symptoms is the first step in combating it.
Additional References
- Bowen AC, Mahé A, Hay RJ, et al. The Global Epidemiology of Impetigo: A Systematic Review of the Population Prevalence of Impetigo and Pyoderma. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0136789.
- Romani L, Steer AC, Whitfeld MJ, Kaldor JM. Prevalence of scabies and impetigo worldwide: a systematic review. Lancet Infect Dis 2015; 15:960.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.