Impetigo

This is a skin infection caused by a bacterium (staphylococcus aureus) that normally lives on the skin surface without any ill effect. Occasionally it gets inside the skin and multiplies, causing a problem. This can happen during a time of reduced resistance, such as a cold, or if the skin is broken by even a minute scratch. The bacterium often lives harmlessly inside the nose of many people. Children are frequently fond of nose-picking, and this may be the source of infection in some.

Impetigo is caused by a bacterium called staphylococcus aureus, and by some strains of streptococcus.

Conditions where the skin is broken, such as eczema, nappy rash, or even just scratches or insect bites, can make it easier for the bacteria to enter the skin's layers and begin an infection.

Impetigo has a characteristic look to it, with inflamed red lumps leaking pus to form thick yellow crusts. It spreads very quickly. It is common on the hands and around the mouth and nose. Severe infections can affect the whole body.

The look of the rash usually gives the diagnosis away. Small red spots appear, which often join up and then blister. When the blisters burst, a yellow fluid seeps out, forming a crust over the area. The spots may be itchy or sore.

Sometimes cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus can look very similar. In the occasional confusing case, a swab for laboratory analysis will help to be certain.

Antibiotic creams or ointments applied to the spots are usually enough to cure an infection, but if it is spreading rapidly, then a short course of antibiotics by mouth are a better option.

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