Characteristics of impetigo

Impetigo may begin as a red spot, small blister, or shallow sore. The surface can break and release fluid before forming a yellow-brown crust. Lesions may occur around the nose and mouth, on the hands, or wherever skin has been scratched, although other areas can be involved. Some forms produce larger blisters, while others mainly cause crusted patches.

Itching or tenderness can lead to touching and scratching, which may carry bacteria to nearby skin. Crusting skin is not unique to impetigo, so a clinician may need to distinguish it from eczema, contact irritation, or another infection.

Avoid picking or peeling the crust. Wash gently with lukewarm water and mild soap, pat dry, and cover the sore with a clean dressing when suitable. Wash hands after contact and keep towels, clothing, and bedding separate. Arrange an assessment to confirm the diagnosis and discuss whether Topical Antibiotic Therapy or another form of Antibiotics For Skin Infection is appropriate.

Get prompt medical advice if lesions spread quickly, become increasingly painful, or develop expanding redness, warmth, swelling, or pus. Seek urgent help for fever, marked weakness, swelling around the eye, or someone who appears seriously ill. Review is needed when sores recur, do not improve with prescribed treatment, or leave a broader area of irritated skin.

Ask whether the lesions look like impetigo, how to protect nearby skin, whether a sample is needed, how long to avoid close contact, and whether a condition such as Atopic Dermatitis could be contributing to irritation.