Although children and infants can develop many types of rashes and skin conditions, Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that can cause itchy, inflamed sores or lesions. This condition can be caused by multiple types of bacteria and may be controlled with varying treatment methods, and at Dermatology Consultants of South Florida, we can help diagnose and provide proper impetigo treatment.
Serving Coral Springs and surrounding areas in Florida, Dermatology Consultants of South Florida is led by our experienced medical team and offers high-quality care and cure for a wide range of skin conditions, including Impetigo. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how this condition is identified and treated.
What is Impetigo?
This highly contagious skin infection is caused by two types of bacteria – streptococcus pyogenes and staphylococcus aureus or a combination of the two. This condition most commonly affects young children and infants and can manifest on the neck, face, and hands, specifically around the nose and mouth.
Impetigo can have multiple uncomfortable symptoms such as:
- Red sores that leave a yellow crust
- Fluid-filled blisters
- Itchy rashes
- Skin lesions
- Swollen lymph nodes
These symptoms may vary in combination and severity from type to type. Although it typically only lasts on the skin for two-three weeks, this condition can be effectively managed through safe and effective treatment at Dermatology Consultants of South Florida.
What Causes Impetigo?
It is known that this condition is caused by a contagious bacterial infection, and children who are at higher risk for contracting this condition tend to be:
- Skin-to-skin contact with infected children
- Touching items that infected individuals have touched, such as toys
- Skin injuries
- Insect or animal bites
Impetigo Treatment Process
Depending on the bacterial infection and the severity of the condition, Impetigo treatment has multiple options. Areas of infection should typically not be washed vigorously as this can exacerbate the condition, and in order to protect healthy members of the family, bedding and towels should not be shared with the infected individual while the rash is present.
During your consultation with our dermatological team, the infection will be thoroughly evaluated, and a treatment plan will be created to ease symptoms and clear the skin. Although this condition is typically identified after a visual assessment, a swab culture may be taken in order to determine the bacterial components.
Contact Dermatology Consultants of South Florida today to schedule a consultation with our medical team and find out more information about the development, identification and Impetigo treatment in infants and children.