Diagnosing impetigo is usually straightforward depending on the clinical appearance, however sometimes various conditions could appear similar to it. Bacterial infections such as tinea (“ringworm”) or scabies (mites) might be confused with impetigo.
It is essential to note that not every blister suggests an impetigo infection. At times, other infected and noninfected skin conditions produce blister-like skin inflammation.
Such conditions may include herpes cold sores, chickenpox, poison ivy, skin allergies, eczema, and insect bites. Secondary infection of such diseases does happen occasionally. Medical judgment and often culture tests, if necessary, are used to decide whether topical antibacterial creams will suffice or whether or not antibiotics taken orally are going to be needed.
Impetigo is not dangerous and is very easy to manage. Mild cases can be handled simply by gentle cleaning, getting rid of crusts and also using the prescription-strength antibiotic ointment mupirocin (Bactroban). Over the counter topical antibiotic creams (for example Neosporin) generally are ineffective. More severe or widespread cases, particularly of bullous impetigo, might need oral antibiotic medication.
In recent years, alot more Staph germs have created resistance to standard antibiotics. Bacterial culture tests can help move the use of suitable oral therapy if required.
Antibiotics which may be useful include penicillin derivatives (for example Augmentin) and cephalosporins for instance cephalexin (Keflex). If medical suspicion based on culture results show some other bacteria, such as drug-resistant Staph (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA), various other antibiotics for example clindamycin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim or Septra) could be needed. Treatment is usually carefully guided by laboratory results (culture and sensitivity lab tests).
What Are Potential Complications Of Impetigo?
One possibly serious but uncommon complication associated with impetigo caused by Strep bacteria is glomerulonephritis, a condition producing kidney inflammation. Numerous experts are not convinced that getting rid of impetigo may prevent glomerulonephritis from occurring.
Given that the crusts and blisters of impetigo tend to be superficial, impetigo will not leave scars. Affected skin will look red for a while after the crusts disappear, however this redness fades in just a few days or weeks.
Can impetigo be avoided?
Normal hand cleansing along with soap as well as warm water is an important and effective mechanism to avoid the actual spread of impetigo.