Diagnosing impetigo is usually straightforward based on the clinical appearance, however sometimes other conditions might appear similar to it. Infections such as tinea (“ringworm”) or scabies (mites) could be wrongly identified as impetigo.
It is important to note that not every single blister means an impetigo infection. At times, other infected and noninfected skin conditions produce blister-like skin inflammation.
Such conditions include herpes cold sores, chickenpox, poison ivy, skin allergies, eczema, and bug bites. Secondary infection of such diseases does happen sometimes. Medical judgment and often culture tests, if necessary, are widely used to decide whether topical antibacterial products will suffice or whether oral antibiotics will be needed.
Impetigo isn’t serious and is very easy to manage. Minor cases can be handled by gentle cleansing, getting rid of crusts and also applying the prescription-strength antibiotic cream mupirocin (Bactroban). Nonprescription topical antibiotic ointments (for example Neosporin) typically are ineffective. More serious or widespread cases, particularly of bullous impetigo, might need oral antibiotic medication.
Recently, alot more Staph germs have created resistance to regular antibiotics. Bacterial culture tests can help move the use of proper oral treatment if needed.
Antibiotics which may be helpful include penicillin derivatives (for example Augmentin) and cephalosporins such as cephalexin (Keflex). If medical suspicion based on culture results show other bacteria, for example drug-resistant Staph (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA), other antibiotics for instance clindamycin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim or Septra) could be necessary. Treatment is carefully guided by clinical results (culture and sensitivity lab tests).
What Are Potential Complications Of Impetigo?
One possibly dangerous but rare complication associated with impetigo caused by Strep bacteria is glomerulonephritis, a condition creating kidney inflammation. Numerous professionals aren’t convinced that treating impetigo will prevent glomerulonephritis from occurring.
Because the crusts and blisters from impetigo tend to be superficial, impetigo will not leave scars. Affected skin looks red for a while after the crusts go away, however this redness fades in just a few days or weeks.
Could impetigo be prevented?