IMPETIGO
Effective, Fast-Acting Treatment for a Contagious Skin Infection
At Signature Skin, Dr. Shantanu Choudhary and Dr. Swati Mogra diagnose and treat impetigo, a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection. Impetigo spreads easily through direct contact, shared towels, or touching an infected area and then another part of the body, so prompt, accurate treatment matters both for the affected person and for the people around them.
Understanding Impetigo
Impetigo is caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus bacteria entering the skin through a small cut, insect bite, or area of eczema. It most often affects children but can occur at any age. There are two main forms: non-bullous impetigo, the more common type, which starts as red sores that quickly rupture and form a characteristic honey-colored crust, and bullous impetigo, which causes larger, fluid-filled blisters that are less likely to rupture on their own.
Why Prompt Treatment Matters
Because impetigo spreads through skin-to-skin contact and contaminated surfaces, untreated cases can spread to other parts of the body or to close contacts, including family members and classmates. An accurate diagnosis also rules out other conditions that can look similar, such as cold sores, eczema, or fungal infections.
Our Treatment Approach
Accurate Diagnosis: We confirm impetigo through a clinical skin examination, distinguishing it from other blistering or crusting skin conditions.
Topical or Oral Antibiotics: Mild, localized cases usually respond to a prescription topical antibiotic. More widespread or bullous impetigo may require a short course of oral antibiotics.
Wound Care Guidance: We advise on gently cleaning affected areas, keeping them covered, and simple hygiene steps that reduce the risk of spreading the infection to other people or other parts of the body.
Follow-Up: Most cases clear within seven to ten days of starting treatment. We monitor for improvement and adjust the plan if the infection does not respond as expected.
If you or your child has red sores, blisters, or a honey-colored crust that is spreading, book a consultation with our dermatology team for a prompt diagnosis and treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is impetigo?
Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection, common in children, causing red sores that can rupture and form a honey-colored crust.
Q. Is impetigo contagious?
Yes, it spreads easily through direct contact - good hygiene and prompt treatment help prevent spreading to others.
Q. How is impetigo treated?
Topical or oral antibiotics are typically prescribed depending on severity and extent of the infection.