What is impetigo?

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that causes a rash that forms blisters and can ooze pus, causing a crust. Impetigo can be caused by different kinds of bacteria, including strep and staph. Usually, impetigo is easy to treat and rarely leaves scarring.

Are there home remedies for impetigo?

An impetigo infection is not serious and is very treatable. Mild impetigo can be handled by gentle cleansing of the sores, removing crusts from the infected person, and applying the prescription antibiotic ointment mupirocin (Bactroban). Nonprescription topical antibiotic ointments (such as Neosporin) generally are not effective.

What kind of doctor treats impetigo?

A primary care doctor — a pediatrician, family practice doctor, or internist — can routinely manage evaluation and treatment of impetigo. If there are unusual health issues or no response to appropriate antibiotic therapy, a specialist in infectious diseases or dermatology could be consulted.

Medically Reviewed on 2/20/2019

References

REFERENCES:

Paller, A.S., and A.J. Mancini. Hurwitz Clinical Pediatric Dermatology, 3rd Edition. London: Elsevier, 2006: 366-367.

Tessaro, Mark Oliver. “Visual Diagnosis: A Boy with a Fever and a Swollen, Blistering Finger.” Pediatrics in Review 37.5 May 2016.