What should you know about head impetigo?

Impetigo often begins where skin has been scratched, bitten or affected by eczema. Small blisters or red sores can break and leave sticky yellow-brown crusts. Around the hairline, crust may cling to hair and the area can feel sore or itchy. It can spread by touch or through shared towels, pillowcases and hair tools.

Atopic dermatitis can damage the skin barrier and make bacterial infection easier, but crusting does not prove that eczema is present. A clinician may need to distinguish impetigo from contact dermatitis, cold sores or another infection.

Arrange medical advice so the skin can be examined. Treatment may be topical antibiotic therapy for a small, limited area or antibiotics for skin infection when lesions are more extensive or the person is unwell. Use medicine exactly as prescribed and do not share leftover antibiotics.

Gently wash affected skin, pat it dry and avoid picking crusts. Wash hands after touching the area, keep nails short, and do not share towels, hats, brushes or pillowcases. Launder recently used fabric items and cover sores when practical. Keep children away from close contact until a clinician confirms it is reasonable to return.

Seek prompt medical care if redness, warmth, swelling or pain is spreading, if there is fever, pus or facial swelling, or if the infection is close to an eye. Urgent assessment is also needed for a child who appears very unwell or for rapidly worsening sores. Scratching can spread infection to nearby skin.

Ask whether the crusting is impetigo, which treatment form is suitable, how to protect household contacts, and when school, work or close contact can safely resume. Mention eczema, allergies and any previous antibiotic reaction.