|
Written by Darko
|
|
Wednesday, 21 October 2009 |
Impetigo is a bacterial infection on the surface of the skin, characterized by honey-colored crusts and mild sores.
What is going on in the body?
Staphylococcal and streptococcal organisms are common on the skin. Warm temperatures, high humidity, and an existing skin disease can lead to overgrowth, or rapid multiplication of these organisms. This overgrowth infects the skin surface and creates the skin lesions of impetigo.
What are the causes and risks of the infection?
Impetigo is a bacterial infection caused by streptococcal or staphylococcal organisms. Scratches, cuts, or skin diseases such as eczema increase a person's risk of infection from impetigo. Impetigo can occur in people of all ages, but it is most common in children. Chronic health problems, malnutrition, or poor hygiene can cause an adult to be susceptible to the disease.
Some people may carry a common bacteria in their nasal passages and be able to spread the disease to others, although they do not have symptoms themselves.
What are the treatments for the infection?
Any crusted skin lesions of impetigo should be soaked several times a day in a solution of soap and water. After soaking the lesions for 10 minutes, the person should gently wipe off the crusts.
Antiseptic solutions, such as povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine, may be suggested to clean the skin. This cleaning reduces the number of bacteria in the area and the possibility of spreading the disease to others. Antibiotics, such as cephalexin, dicloxacillin, or mupirocin, may be taken as pills or used as an ointment on the skin lesions.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Antibiotics may cause rash, stomach upset, or allergic reactions.
What happens after treatment for the infection?
Impetigo should clear up completely with effective treatment.
How is the infection monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
|
