11 Questions
What is the most common causative agent of impetigo?
Streptococcus
Which age group is most commonly affected by impetigo?
Children younger than 12
How is impetigo primarily transmitted?
Through direct contact
Which of the following is a characteristic feature of impetigo lesions that distinguishes them from herpes simplex virus lesions?
Golden yellow crusts
What are the potential complications associated with impetigo?
Post strep glomerulonephritis and arthritis
How does impetigo primarily differ from pemphigus (bullous type)?
Presents with golden yellow crusts
What distinguishes impetigo from scabies when considering a clinical diagnosis?
Presence of golden yellow crusts on skin lesions
Why is impetigo considered highly contagious?
Can be transmitted via sharing items like towels
What is the main focus of treatment for impetigo?
Preventing spread and complications
Which condition could impetigo potentially evolve into?
Post strep glomerulonephritis
Why is it crucial to use systemic antibiotics in treating impetigo?
To target the bacteria throughout the body
Study Notes
Impetigo
- Superficial bacterial skin infection that affects only the epidermis
- Caused by staphylococcus, streptococcus, or both
- Most commonly seen in children younger than 12 years old
- Incubation period: 1-3 days
- Affects exposed areas such as the face, hands, and lower limbs
Characteristics
- Multiple lesions characterized by golden yellow crusts
- High contagiousness through direct contact and sharing items like towels and clothes
- Tends to clear slowly, leaving no scars due to epidermal location
Complications
- Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis
- Arthritis (but not rheumatic fever)
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Clinical diagnosis
- Differential diagnosis includes scabies (when infected), pemphigus (bullous type), and herpes simplex (may become impetiginized)
- Treatment aims to prevent spread (including hematogenous spread) and decrease risk of complications
- Treatment options:
- Broad-spectrum systemic antibiotics (dicloxacillin or cephalexin)
- Topical antibiotics (gentamycin and fusidic acid)
Test your knowledge on impetigo, a superficial bacterial skin infection that usually affects children under 12 years old. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of this contagious condition characterized by golden yellow crusts on exposed areas like face and hands.
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