What should you know about impetigo ttt?

Impetigo commonly affects the face and hands, but it can occur wherever the skin barrier has been broken. Small red spots may become blisters or shallow open sores, followed by a yellow-brown crust. It can spread through direct skin contact, scratching, shared towels, clothing, or bedding. A person with atopic dermatitis may be more vulnerable when irritated skin is cracked; learn more about Atopic Dermatitis.

The crust itself is a symptom rather than proof of a particular cause. See Crusting Skin for a broader explanation of crusted skin changes.

Wash the affected area gently with clean water and mild soap, pat it dry, and keep sores covered with a clean dressing when practical. Wash hands after touching the area, avoid picking, and do not share towels, razors, clothing, or pillowcases. A clinician may recommend a cream or ointment for a small area, or medicine taken by mouth when infection is more widespread; treatment choice depends on the examination. Read about Topical Antibiotic Therapy and Antibiotics For Skin Infection.

Arrange medical advice if sores are spreading, painful, recurrent, or not improving with prescribed treatment. Seek prompt care for fever, marked swelling, rapidly expanding redness, pus, severe tenderness, or involvement near the eye. Children should stay home from close-contact activities until a clinician advises that returning is appropriate.

Ask whether the appearance fits impetigo, which treatment is suitable for the affected area, how long to use it, and when close contacts or household items need extra precautions.