Impetigo Demystified: Spotting the Signs and Preventing the Spread

What is Impetigo?

It is a deceptively simple infection that continues to challenge clinicians, especially when it mimics other dermatologic conditions or goes unrecognized in adults.

Whether it’s classic honey-colored crusts or subtle bullae, impetigo is more than “just a kid’s rash” and it deserves a closer look.

How It Spreads

Impetigo is highly contagious and spreads through:

• Direct skin contact with infected lesions

• Fomites like towels, bedding, or toys

• Auto-inoculation from scratching

It thrives in settings like schools, daycares, and athletic teams, especially with poor hygiene or skin barrier disruptions (such as eczema, insect bites, minor trauma).

Why Recognizing It Matters

Impetigo isn’t just a nuisance, it can lead to complications such as:

• Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis

• Cellulitis or deeper skin infections

• MRSA transmission in community settings

And it’s often misdiagnosed as:

• HSV (especially bullous impetigo)

• Contact dermatitis

• Tinea infections

• Atopic eczema flare-ups

Early diagnosis is key to:

• Starting topical or systemic antibiotics promptly

• Preventing outbreaks in household or school settings

• Avoiding unnecessary treatments or workups

Keep an eye out for rapidly spreading lesions, crusting, and mild pruritus or discomfort, especially when they appear in clusters or after minor trauma. Swabbing for culture may help when lesions are atypical or treatment fails.

Too much information?

Here’s a FREE guide for you to check it out later or share with your patients: