Skin Health Skin Health Basics

Impetigo

Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection that most often occurs in children. In fact, it is the most common skin infection among children. Adults who contract impetigo usually get it from contact with children.

Impetigo is caused by toxin-producing bacteria that may normally be present on the skin. Unbroken skin usually provides a barrier to prevent bacteria from entering the body. However, any break in the skin, from a cut or skin disease, may permit the bacteria to enter and inflame the layers of skin. Environmental changes, including warmer weather, may also provide more opportunities for the bacteria to affect the body.

Impetigo usually produces sores on the face and around the mouth. They may begin as a single sore and spread to form others that ooze pus and form a crust. These lesions may itch, but are not typically painful.

Impetigo-related lesions are extremely contagious. Touching one sore and then touching another body part can spread the infection. It may also spread from clothing or towels that came into contact with a sore.

People at risk for impetigo include:

• Those with underdeveloped or weakened immune systems, especially children and patients with chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes).
• Patients on antibiotic therapy. Prolonged use of antibiotics can lower a person’s ability to fight infection.

Impetigo is seldom serious, especially if treated early. It can be treated with topical antibiotic ointment or oral medications. The sores usually clear up within a few weeks, although sometimes scarring can occur.  In rare circumstances, impetigo infection can lead to complications in other parts of the body, including the kidneys.

The skin normally has many harmless types of bacteria living on it, known collectively as the skin flora. These bacteria live in the skin’s hair follicles and in sebaceous glands that moisten the skin. They also protect the body from more harmful bacteria. The skin itself also provides a major barrier to keep both the bacteria in the skin flora and other harmful organisms from entering the body. However, when there is a break in the skin (e.g., from a cut, bruise or other form of trauma), bacteria can enter the body and cause inflammation and infection. Other factors may also affect the skin flora and make it susceptible to infection, including high temperatures or humidity, pre-existing skin infections and prolonged use of antibiotics, which can lower a person’s ability to fight infection.   

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