Impetigo is a skin infection that has two forms. Non-bullous impetigo occurs on the face, head or arms. Bullous Impetigo affects the torso, arms or legs. Neither form is life threatening. In most cases Impetigo will clear up within two to three weeks without medical treatment. The symptoms usually appear in 4 to 10 days after the initial infection.
Non-bullous Impetigo
Most people contract this form of Impetigo. It starts as a sore that quickly clears, leaving behind small scabs about 2 centimeters in diameter. These will usually clear within 3 weeks. There is no pain involved although severe cases could have a fever or swollen lymph glands. Itchiness is common. Scratching should be avoided to prevent spread of the disease over the patient’s body or to other people.
Bullous Impetigo
The first signs of Bullous Impetigo are Bullae, a fluid-filled blister. The blisters can spread rapidly over the torso and extremities. They will burst and leave a golden crust behind. Bullous Impetigo sores can be painful and itchy. Itching should be avoided to prevent further spread of the infection on the patient or to other people.
Treatment Strategies for Impetigo
For mild cases, an office visit is usually not necessary. Some people may want to seek medical attention anyway to ascertain the disease is not something else which could be worse. People with prior skin infections may want to visit their doctor for the same reason. To avoid the spread of Impetigo to others, a patient may wish to avoid public places such as work, school, churches and similar places for 2 days after start of the treatment or 2 days after the sores stop oozing or crusting.
Medical Treatments Available
If the symptoms become worse or do not respond to treatment, a referral to a dermatologist may be the next step. For milder cases that are not widespread, antibiotic creams may be prescribed. For severe or recurring cases, prescription antibiotics may be used.
Dermatologist Available for Treatment
Contact the esteemed dermatologists of OC Skin Institute to learn more about our innovative treatments for impetigo.