Today I’m going to talk about a skin condition that mainly affects children. Although it isn’t dangerous it is contagious, so the sooner we detect it, the better. Here are a few tips on the subject…
What is impetigo?
Impetigo appears as small blisters or scabs that usually start on children’s faces. It is equally common in boys and girls, although it is rare in children over the age of 10.
It is more commonly seen in humid climates and may be associated with poor hygiene or overcrowding.
There are two forms:
- Non-bullous impetigo: This is the most common form of impetigo. It consists of small bumps that burst and form yellowish scabs, which are initially clustered in the same area. These scabs are often called “honey-colored scabs,” meaning they look like honey. Over the course of several days, they can spread to other areas of the body, especially if the child touches or scratches them. (More images of non-bullous impetigo)
- Bullous impetigo: It usually affects infants and typically appears as blisters that are more or less taut. They are fragile, and as they burst, they leave reddish scabs that can spread if the child or we touch them. (Images of bullous impetigo)
What causes impetigo?
Impetigo is an infection caused by two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The former is always the most common cause; it always causes blistering impetigo and is responsible for most cases of contagious impetigo.
Impetigo is caused by bacteria that infect the skin
How is impetigo diagnosed?
Normalmente no es necesario realizar ninguna prueba especial para diagnosticar esta enfermedad, ya que su aspecto es característico en la mayoría de los casos. Debe diferenciarse de otras infecciones de la piel (como herpes, u hongos) y enfermedades inflamatorias o incluso picaduras; por todo esto, es recomendable qeu lo vea un pediatra o dermatólogo.
In cases where the treatment does not work properly the first time or where the lesions cover a large area of the body, the dermatologist may order a culture to identify the bacteria causing the infection.
How is impetigo treated?
Since this is a bacterial infection, it must be treated with antibiotics. It is usually sufficient to use antibiotic creams for 7–10 days, but in cases where children have a lot of scabs or blisters, oral treatment (syrup, packets, or tablets) may be necessary.
Impetigo must be treated with antibiotics
What are the risks associated with impetigo?
As the name suggests, the primary risk is the spread of the infection to other areas. Since it is caused by bacteria, if we touch the lesion, we risk spreading those bacteria to other areas of the skin; therefore, it is important to avoid this, as well as to wash our hands frequently and, if possible, keep the scabs or small sores covered.
In extremely rare cases, impetigo caused by streptococcus (which is the least common cause) can lead to complications affecting the kidneys or joints weeks after the skin lesions have healed. If this occurs, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician.
