About Impetigo

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Overview

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection characterized by the eruptions of superficial pustules and formation of thick yellow crusty sores. It is highly contagious and can occur anywhere on the body, especially in exposed areas. The two different types of Impetigo are Bullous Impetigo, which are large blisters, and Non-Bullous Impetigo, which are crusted over blisters. Non-Bullous Impetigo is the most common type. Both types require contact precautions because they can be transmitted via physical contact with anyone who has it, sharing the same clothes, bedding, towels, etc... Because of the way young children proceed with their lifestyles, touching everything within their reach, the primary age groups targeted with this infection are, in fact, young children. It is most common on their facial area, mainly around their noses and mouths, but sometimes impetigo will appear on their arms and legs. Although children are the main hosts of this infection, they are not the only hosts. Even adult men and women can be susceptible to the inconvenience of Impetigo. (http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/understanding-impetigo-basics) (Nemours, 1995-2011)

The two main bacteria precipitating Impetigo are staphylococcus aureus, the most common cause, and streptococcus pyogenes. If left untreated, streptococcus pyogenes can also cause post-streptococcal glumerulonephritis, or a disease that causes an inflammation of the kidney to occur following a strep throat infection. Although this is rare, standard precautions must still be taken to prevent these repercussions. Staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus pyogenes are the main causes of Impetigo, but they are not the only. Other lesions, such as eczema, body lice, insect bit...

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...s simple as washing hands and showering regularly can terminate the chances of coming across this bacteria. Also, doctors encourage special attention given to areas with a broken barrier of protection. These areas are advised to be kept extra clean and away from possible transmitters of Impetigo. (Nemours, 1995-2011)

Works Cited

"Impetigo ." KidsHealth - the Web's most visited site about children's health. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Oct. 2011. .

"Impetigo Cause ." National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Home Page . N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Oct. 2011. .

"Impetigo Causes, Contagious, Transmission, Complications." WebMD - Better information. Better health.. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Oct. 2011. .

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