What is impetigo and how can I recognize it?
Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that mainly affects children, but can also affect adults. It is caused by bacteria, usually staphylococcus aureus or streptococcus. Characteristic signs ofimpetigo include red lesions, often on the face, around the mouth and nose, which rapidly develop into small, pus-filled vesicles. These vesicles may burst and form a honey-colored crust.
How does impetigo spread?
This infection is spread by direct contact with the lesions of an infected person, or by contact with contaminated objects such as towels, toys or clothing. Theincubation period for impetigo generally varies from 1 to 3 days after exposure to the bacteria.
What treatments are available for impetigo?
Impetigo treatment aims to eliminate the infection and prevent its spread. It mainly involves the application of antibiotic creams and, in more severe cases,oral antibiotics. It's crucial to start treatment quickly to avoid spreading the infection to other parts of the body or to other individuals.
How can impetigo be prevented?
Preventing impetigo involves maintaining good personal hygiene. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching infected lesions. Avoiding sharing personal objects and covering open sores can also reduce the risk of transmission.
Can impetigo recur?
Yes,impetigo can recur, especially if conditions conducive to bacterial proliferation persist. People who have already had impetigo, or those living in cluttered or unhygienic environments, are more likely to develop this infection again.
What's the difference between bullous and non-bullous impetigo?
Non-bullous impetigo, also known as contagious impetigo, is the most common form of this infection. It manifests itself as red lesions that evolve into pustules, which burst to form a honey-like crust.Bullous impetigo, on the other hand, is characterized by large, fluid-filled bubbles that appear mainly on the trunk or limbs of children. These bubbles are more fragile and burst easily, leaving the skin red and exposed.
What are the risk factors for impetigo?
Risk factors include young age, especially children between 2 and 5, close contact in settings such as schools or nurseries, poor hygiene, and the existence of small cuts, abrasions or insect bites that allow bacteria to enter the skin. In addition, pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis can also increase the risk of developing impetigo.
Can I go to school or work with impetigo?
It's generally advisable to avoid school, nursery or work until the lesions are dry and crusted.are dry and crusted, or until 48 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment. This reduces the risk of spreading the infection to other people.
How is impetigo diagnosed?
The diagnosis ofimpetigo is primarily clinical, based on the appearance of the skin lesions. A doctor may sometimes take a swab of the affected area to identify the specific pathogen in the laboratory. This can help select the most effective antibiotic in cases where standard treatment fails.
Are there any complications associated with impetigo?
Although rare, impetigo can lead to complications, especially if the infection is not treated promptly. Possible complications include post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, a serious kidney condition, and cellulitis, a deeper skin infection. In rare cases, impetigo can also lead to septicemia, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
