Impetigo

Question 1

pathogen causing impetigo ?

Answer 1

Staphylcoccus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes

Question 2

risk factors for impetigo ?

Answer 2

complication of an existing skin condition such as eczema
(in this case), scabies or insect bites

common in children, particularly during warm weather.

Question 3

where does impetigo usually occur ?

Answer 3

anywhere on the body but lesions tend to occur on the face, flexures and limbs not covered by clothing

Question 4

pathophysiology of impetigo and spread ?

Answer 4

direct contact with discharges from the scabs of an infected person.

bacteria invade skin through minor abrasions

then spread to other sites by scratching.

Infection is spread mainly by the hands, but indirect spread via toys, clothing, equipment and the environment may occur

Question 5

management of Limited, localised disease non‑bullous impetigo ?

Answer 5

hydrogen peroxide 1% cream

Question 6

secondary line of management of Limited, localised disease impetigo ?

Answer 6

topical fusidic acid

Question 7

if fusidic acid resistance is suspected what should be used ?

Answer 7

topical mupirocin
MRSA is not susceptible to either fusidic acid or retapamulin

Question 8

tx for Extensive impetigo disease

Answer 8

oral flucloxacillin
oral erythromycin if penicillin-allergic

Question 9

how do we know impetigo is healed ?

Answer 9

lesions are crusted and healed

or

48 hours after commencing antibiotic treatment