'Impetigo' is a contagious skin infection affecting the surface layers of the skin. It is relatively common, affects children and adults, and is spreading rapidly, especially in children's groups.
Etiology and pathogenesis
Impetigo is a bacterial disease caused by either the Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. According to the causing agent, we distinguish between three forms:
'Maculovesicular' - streptococcal;
'Bullous' - staphylococcal - bullae are formed by cleavage of the epidermis by staphylococcal exotoxins - exfoliatins (A and B);
Impetigo lesions on the forearm 'Mixed' - streptococcal and staphylococcal infection. It is the most common.
Clinical course
Impetigo skin lesions
'Maculovesicular' form begins with red macules, which gradually turn into blisters. Initially, the serous contents become cloudy and a pustule is formed. Pustules can resemble acne. The pustules crack and honey-yellow crusts form from the dried secretion.
'Bullous' form is characterized by large blisters that rupture rapidly, leaving red wetting deposits. Impetigo can occur anywhere on the body, but the most common location is the face.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made according to the characteristic clinical course. In unclear cases, a bacteriological examination is performed.
Differential diagnosis:
