Infection of the skin by bacteria can cause a variety of different conditions, one of which is impetigo. Impetigo is caused by two types of bacteria called: Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogenes, more commonly known as "Staph" and "Strep". It is an extremely common childhood infection that can also affect adults, and is most frequently found on the face, arms and legs.

Causes

Although the actual cause of impetigo is infection with bacteria, there is usually some break in skin integrity that allows for the infection. The most common underlying causes of the skin break leading to impetigo are bites, injury or other skin rashes such as eczema or dermatitis. Be sure to thoroughly clean any new wounds to prevent infection. For more information, please see our Skin Infections article.

Signs and Symptoms
The most common way that impetigo is diagnosed is by the presence of a golden yellow crust on the skin lesion that resembles dried honey. There are two types of impetigo known as bullous (medical name for blisters) and non-bullous. The non-bullous type is more common and is often found on the face or extremeties. It presents with small pustules on a reddened base of skin, which eventually burst and leave behind the characteristic crust. This type of impetigo can be caused by Staph or Strep bacteria. Bullous impetigo is almost exclusively caused by Staph, and can be found anywhere on the body. It causes weak blisters filled with clear yellow fluid that eventually rupture and leave behind the characteristic crust.

Reducing Spread
Although the rash usually starts in one place, it can easily spread to other areas with scratching. Because it is caused by an infection, it is important to avoid touching anything after touching infected areas. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after touching any lesions. In order to reduce the spread, it is important to wash sheets, pillowcases, and frequently touched surfaces. Cut fingernails short to prevent scratching of the lesions, and to prevent the bacteria from growing under the nails and being passed to other areas. In infants, baby mitts or socks are a great way to prevent them from scratching the areas so they can be allowed to heal.

Staph Carriers
In the medical community some people are considered "Staph carriers". This means that they actually have a community of Staph permanently living in their nasal passages. This allows them to easily infect themselves or others on an ongoing basis. Antibiotic treatment does not seem to eliminate the Staph in carriers, and thus good hygiene is essential in those with chronic impetigo.

Treatment
Conventional treatment of impetigo involves antibiotic cream, and in more severe cases oral antibiotics. In general, it is a good idea to keep the affected areas clean and to remove the characteristic crust and any fluid seeping from the area. Gently wash the skin several times a day (without scrubbing) using warm water and a gentle soap. Be sure to use a fresh towel to dry the area each time to prevent reinfection. It is preferable to allow the lesions to be exposed to the air as much as possible to keep them dry. Supporting the immune system is essential to help your body fight off the infection naturally. For more information, please see our Immune Support article. Please see below for a list of supplements that can aid the treatment of impetigo. Once the infection has begun to clear, it is also beneficial to ensure you are providing your body with the full spectrum of nutrients that it requires to both maintain and replace healthy skin. For more information, please see our Skin Health article.