Impetigo

What is Impetigo

Impetigo is a superficial bacterial infection of the skin that primarily involves the outermost layers of the epidermis. It develops when bacteria colonize the skin surface, enter through minor breaks in the protective barrier, and multiply in the superficial tissue layers.…

Symptoms of Impetigo

What are the symptoms of impetigo? The condition most often produces red skin lesions that break down into fluid-filled blisters or shallow sores and then form a characteristic honey-colored crust . It may also cause itching, tenderness, and local irritation around…

Causes of Impetigo

Impetigo is caused by a bacterial infection of the outer layers of the skin, most often involving Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes . It develops when these bacteria gain access to the skin surface, multiply, and produce toxins or enzymes that…

Diagnosis of Impetigo

Impetigo is usually diagnosed by its appearance and by the pattern of skin change it creates, rather than by any single definitive laboratory finding in most routine cases. It is a superficial bacterial infection of the outer layers of the skin,…

Treatment for Impetigo

What treatments are used for impetigo? The condition is usually treated with topical or oral antibiotics, along with cleansing measures that reduce bacterial load and remove crusted discharge. These treatments are designed to eliminate the bacterial organisms that infect the superficial…

Prevention of Impetigo

Impetigo is a superficial bacterial skin infection, most often caused by Staphylococcus aureus and sometimes by Group A Streptococcus . It develops when bacteria enter the outer layers of the skin, usually through small breaks such as scratches, insect bites, eczema-related…

FAQ about Impetigo

This FAQ article explains the basics of impetigo, a common skin infection that often affects children but can occur at any age. It covers what impetigo is, why it develops, how it is diagnosed, the usual treatment options, what to expect…