Impetigo (sometimes impetaigo) is a superficial bacterial skin infection most common among pre-school children.

Impetigo usually affects preschool and school-age children.

It is generally caused by one of two bacteria: staphylococcus aureus or group A streptococcus.

A child may be more likely to develop impetigo if the skin has already been irritated by other skin problems, such as eczema, poison ivy, and insect bites.

Non-bullous impetigo: This is the common form, caused

by both staph and strep bacteria. It appears as small blisters or scabs, which then form yellow or honey-colored crusts. These often start around the nose and on the face, but they also may affect the arms and legs. At times, there may be swollen glands nearby.

Bullous impetigo: This form is caused by staph

bacteria that produce a toxin that causes a break between the top layer (epidermis) and the lower levels of skin forming a blister. (The medical term for blister is bulla.) Blisters can appear in various skin areas, especially the buttocks, though these blisters are fragile and often break and leave red, raw skin with a ragged edge. No prior trauma is needed for these blisters to appear.

Impetigo is contagious, mostly from direct contact with someone who has it.

Can be transmitted through: towels, toys, clothing or household items.

GLOMERULONEPHRITISOne potential complication of

impetigo caused by strep germs. A kidney condition producing inflammation. Treating the impetigo does not prevent glomerulonephritis from occurring, but this very uncommon and usually causes no lasting kidney damage.

Impetigo is not serious, may go away and dry up on its own, and is easy to treat.

Mild cases can be handled by gentle cleansing, removing crusts, and applying the prescription-strength antibiotic ointment mupirocin(Bactroban).

More severe or widespread cases, especially of bullous impetigo, may require oral antibiotic medication for impetigo.

Antibiotics:

Penicillin

Erythromycin

Azithromycin

Cephalexin