What should you know about impetigo spot?

A spot may begin as redness or a tiny break in the skin, then become a shallow sore or a fragile blister. When the fluid dries, a yellow-brown crust can cover it. Impetigo commonly affects the face and hands, although any area with irritated or broken skin can be involved. A single spot can seed nearby skin if it is scratched or rubbed.

Appearance alone cannot distinguish every cause of a rash. Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, heat rash, intertrigo, psoriasis, ringworm, scabies and drug rash can all produce different forms of redness, scale, itch or bumps. A clinician can assess the shape, crusting, distribution and symptoms together.

Wash gently with clean water and mild cleanser, dry by patting, and cover the spot with a clean dressing if it is likely to be touched. Wash hands after care and avoid sharing towels, bedding, clothing or face cloths. Do not squeeze blisters or peel crusts, because this can injure skin and transfer infection.

Contact a clinician if the spot is new and suspicious, is multiplying, or has not begun to settle with the advised care. Treatment depends on how localised or widespread the infection is and where it sits on the body.

Arrange prompt assessment for rapid enlargement, increasing warmth or pain, pus, fever, swollen glands, or sores near the eye. Seek urgent help for severe eye swelling, changes in vision, confusion or difficulty swallowing. Early advice is also sensible for infants and people with reduced immunity.

Ask what features make the spot look infected, whether another rash could explain it, how to cover and clean it, and whether household contacts need precautions. Tell the clinician when it appeared, whether it itches or hurts, and whether new products or medicines preceded it.