Impetigo

Impetigo is a superficial bacterial skin infection. It's most commonly caused by Staph aureus.

It presents with a golden crust on the skin.

Complications of it include cellulitis, sepsis, and staphylococcus scalded skin syndrome (SSSS).

Non-Bullous Impetigo

This typically forms around the nose and mouth. It presents with exudate from lesions that dry to form a golden crust.

It's managed with:

• Topical Hydrogen peroxide - 1st line

• Topical Fusidic acid for localised infection

• PO Flucloxacillin in more widespread or severe infection

Bullous Impetigo

With this, the bacteria produces toxins that break down the proteins that hold epidermal cells together, therefore forming a fluid-filled vesicle. These vesicles then burst and form a golden crust, which can be very painful and itchy.

It's managed with PO/IV Flucloxacillin.