16 Questions
What is impetigo often mistaken for?
ringworm or eczema
Why would a doctor want to perform a culture test on the bacteria from your sore?
To see what type of bacteria caused the infection
What is the first line of treatment for impetigo?
Antibiotics
What is the purpose of topical antibiotic creams, gels, or ointments?
To treat small areas of skin infection
How long does it usually take for impetigo to heal with treatment?
7–10 days
What is important to discuss with a doctor before using essential oils to treat impetigo?
The potential side effects of the essential oils
Why should you keep the affected area clean and covered with bandages?
To stop the infection from spreading
What is the FDA's role in regulating essential oils?
The FDA does not monitor or regulate essential oils
What is the primary cause of impetigo?
Bacterial infection
What age group is most commonly affected by impetigo?
2-5 years old
What is the primary location of impetigo sores on the body?
Face, arms, and legs
What is the final stage of impetigo sores after crusting?
Discolored marks that fade without leaving scars
What is the most common type of impetigo?
Nonbullous
What is the characteristic of Ecthyma impetigo?
Forms large, painful blisters that can break into sores
What is the common preceding condition for impetigo?
Eczema
What is the main distinction between bullous and nonbullous impetigo?
Presence of fluid-filled blisters
Study Notes
Impetigo Overview
- Impetigo is a bacterial infection that affects the skin, causing sores and blisters.
- It can appear differently depending on the stage of infection and the affected body part.
- Impetigo is a common contagious skin infection.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes infect the outer layers of the skin (epidermis).
- Anyone can get impetigo, but it most commonly affects children, especially those between 2–5 years old.
- The infection often begins in minor cuts, insect bites, or a rash such as eczema - any place where the skin is broken.
Symptoms
- The first symptoms of impetigo are discolored sores on the skin, often clustered around the nose and lips.
- These sores quickly grow into blisters that may ooze, burst, and then form a yellowish crust.
- The clusters of blisters may expand to cover more of the skin.
- The sores can be itchy and occasionally painful.
Types of Impetigo
- There are three types of impetigo based on the bacteria that cause them and the sores that form:
- Nonbullous: causes patches of skin discoloration and sores that can break and crust over.
- Bullous: forms large, fluid-filled blisters that can burst open.
- Ecthyma: a more severe but less common form that affects deeper layers of the skin and can cause large, painful blisters that break into sores.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- A doctor or healthcare professional can usually diagnose the infection by its appearance.
- Antibiotics are the first line of treatment for impetigo.
- The type of antibiotic depends on how widespread or severe the lesions are.
- Topical antibiotic creams, gels, or ointments are preferred for small areas of skin, while oral antibiotics are used for severe or widespread cases.
- Home remedies, such as keeping the area clean and covering it with bandages, can also help stop the infection from spreading.
Essential Oils
- Some people claim that certain essential oils, such as geranium oil, patchouli oil, and tea tree oil, can help remedy impetigo.
- However, it's essential to speak with a doctor before using any essential oils, as they may not be safe for everyone and can cause side effects.
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that causes sores and blisters, often affecting the face, arms, and legs. Learn about its symptoms, causes, and more.
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