What should you know about pustular impetigo?

The infection can produce small blisters or pustules containing cloudy fluid. They may break open, leave moist areas and develop yellow-brown crusts. It commonly affects exposed skin such as the face, hands and limbs, but can occur elsewhere. Scratching can move bacteria to nearby skin, while touching sores can pass the infection to another person. Crusting skin is a useful symptom description, but several skin conditions can crust, so appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

Arrange a medical assessment, particularly if the sores are spreading, numerous or close to the eyes. Keep the area clean with gentle washing, pat it dry and avoid picking or squeezing the pustules. Cover sores loosely with clean clothing or a dressing when practical. Wash hands after touching the area, do not share towels, clothing or razors, and launder items that contact the sores. A clinician may recommend topical antibiotic therapy for a limited area or antibiotic treatment by mouth when infection is more extensive; use the prescribed treatment for the full advised course.

Seek prompt care if redness, warmth, swelling or tenderness is rapidly increasing, if fever or marked unwellness develops, or if the infection is near an eye. Urgent assessment is also sensible when a child is very young, a person has reduced immunity, or the skin is not improving with prescribed care. Emergency help is needed for breathing difficulty, faintness or severe swelling of the face.

Ask whether the lesions are pustular impetigo or another cause of crusting, which treatment form fits the extent and site, how to protect household members, and when it is safe to return to school, childcare or work.