Impetigo

Impetigo, a contagious bacterial skin infection, is characterized by red sores or blisters that can rupture, forming honey-colored crusts. At Dermatology of Southeastern Ohio, we understand the discomfort associated with impetigo, commonly affecting children but also prevalent in adults. This infection often occurs in areas with breaks in the skin, such as cuts or insect bites. 

There are three forms of impetigo:

Ordinary Impetigo is caused by Streptococcal germs. It appears as red sores that rupture quickly, ooze a fluid, and then form a honey-colored crust. It primarily affects children from infancy to age two.

Bulbous Impetigo appears as fluid-filled blisters caused by Staphylococcus germs. This contagious infection is carried by the fluid that oozes from the blisters.

Ecthyma is a more serious form of impetigo that penetrates to the second layer of skin (dermis). It is characterized by sores that are painful and/or fluid or pus-filled. These lesions most commonly appear on the legs or feet. The sores break open and scab with a hard yellow-gray crust. It can also cause swollen lymph glands in the affected area.

Recognizing the importance of prompt treatment, our dermatology providers offer specialized care for impetigo, providing effective solutions to alleviate symptoms and prevent the spread of infection. At Dermatology of Southeastern Ohio, your skin is our priority. If you suspect impetigo, schedule an appointment with a trusted Dermatology of Southeastern Ohio provider for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment journey to healthy skin.

Preventing impetigo involves adopting simple yet effective hygiene practices to reduce the risk of bacterial skin infection. Here are key preventive measures recommended by our dermatologists:

• Regular Handwashing: Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after activities that involve skin contact, playing in shared spaces, or using communal items.
• Prompt Wound Care: Thoroughly clean and cover any cuts, scrapes, or insect bites to prevent bacteria from entering the skin. Immediate attention to minor injuries is crucial
• Avoiding Skin-to-Skin Contact: Minimize direct skin contact with individuals showing signs of impetigo or other contagious skin conditions. Refrain from using personal items like towels or clothing belonging to an infected person.
• Cleanliness in Shared Spaces: Maintain cleanliness in communal spaces, particularly in schools, daycares, and sports facilities. Regular disinfection of surfaces and shared items helps prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Education: Teach individuals to use their own items for personal hygiene to reduce the risk of sharing bacteria. Educate individuals, particularly parents and caregivers, about the symptoms of impetigo and the importance of seeking medical attention promptly for diagnosis and treatment.

By incorporating these preventive measures into daily routines and promoting good hygiene practices, the risk of impetigo can be significantly reduced, fostering a healthier environment for individuals of all ages.

The primary course of action to treat impetigo involves a 7-10-day regimen of prescription oral antibiotics and/or topical antibiotics. These medications work to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection, aiding in the healing process. Individuals must complete the entire prescribed course of medications, even if the sores appear to be improving. This ensures complete eradication of the bacteria and minimizes the risk of recurrence.

Topical antibiotics available over the counter, such as Neosporin, are not recommended for treating impetigo. Our dermatologists prescribe specific formulations tailored to combat the specific bacteria responsible for the infection.
In addition to antibiotic therapy, our team may advise gentle cleansing of the affected areas to remove crusts and promote healing. It is important to refrain from picking at the sores to prevent further spread of the infection.

If you suspect you or a loved one has impetigo, schedule an appointment with one of our dermatology providers today to get a customized treatment plan specific to your needs and begin the journey to healthy skin.