A bacterial infection of the skin, caused by streptococci or staphylococci and marked by yellow to red, weeping and crusted or pustular lesions, esp. around the nose, mouth, and cheeks or on the extremities. Associated symptoms include itching, burning, and regional lymphadenopathy; glomerulonephritis is a rare but serious complication. The disease is common in children and adults and may develop after trauma or irritation to the skin.
An acute skin inflammation results in the development of flat blisters that turn into pus-filled sores before crusting over. This condition is most frequently observed on the face, and it predominantly affects children, often leading to outbreaks in schools due to its easy spread through close contact. The primary causes are bacterial infections, either from Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus. Conditions like scabies and pediculosis, which cause itchy skin, can further complicate impetigo. If a child suddenly develops a crusty, infected-looking rash on the face, it should be suspected as impetigo, and medical consultation should be sought immediately. Oral and topical antibiotics can treat the condition effectively within a few days. Until the condition improves, the affected individual should remain at home and be kept in isolation.