What should you know about impetigo on the leg?

Leg impetigo may form red patches, small fluid-filled blisters, shallow sores, or yellow-brown crusts. It can follow a graze, shaving irritation, insect bite, or an itchy rash. Because legs are exposed to scratching and contact with clothing, bacteria can travel to nearby breaks in the skin. [Crusting Skin](/symptoms/skin-crusting/) has several possible explanations, so diagnosis should consider the full appearance and symptoms.

Wash the area with mild soap and water, pat dry, and place a clean dressing over open sores. Wash hands after applying care, avoid picking, and keep towels, clothes, and bedding separate until washed. Do not share sports gear or personal items. A clinician may choose a local medicine for a limited patch or oral treatment when several areas are involved. Read about [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) and [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/).

Arrange a medical review if redness is enlarging, sores are recurring, or walking becomes uncomfortable. Urgent assessment is needed for fever, rapidly spreading warmth or swelling, severe pain, red lines up the leg, or feeling faint or very unwell. Extra care is appropriate when the rash is over a joint, follows a deep wound, or occurs alongside [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/).

Ask whether the infection is limited to the surface, how to dress the sores during work or school, when close contact is safe, and what changes would mean the treatment needs review.