Bullous impetigo

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Bullous impetigo
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Blisters, skin lesions, itching
Complications	Cellulitis, sepsis
Onset	Infancy, childhood
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes	Staphylococcus aureus
Risks	Poor hygiene, crowded living conditions
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis, bacterial culture
Differential diagnosis	Pemphigus, herpes simplex, contact dermatitis
Prevention	Good hygiene, hand washing
Treatment	Antibiotics, topical antiseptics
Medication	Mupirocin, cephalexin
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	Common in children
Deaths	N/A

A bacterial skin infection characterized by large blisters

Bullous impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that primarily affects infants and young children, although it can occur in individuals of any age. It is characterized by the formation of large, fluid-filled blisters, or bullae, on the skin. This condition is a form of impetigo, which is a common and highly contagious skin infection.

Etiology

Bullous impetigo is caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium produces a toxin that causes the skin to separate, leading to the formation of blisters. The infection is typically spread through direct contact with the lesions or through contact with contaminated objects.

Clinical Presentation

Bullous impetigo on the arm

The hallmark of bullous impetigo is the appearance of large, fluid-filled blisters on the skin. These blisters are usually painless but can be itchy. The blisters may rupture, leaving a yellow crust. The lesions are most commonly found on the face, arms, legs, and trunk.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of bullous impetigo is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the lesions. A bacterial culture of the fluid from the blisters can be performed to confirm the presence of Staphylococcus aureus.

Treatment

Close-up of bullous impetigo lesions

Treatment of bullous impetigo involves the use of antibiotics. Topical antibiotics, such as mupirocin, are often effective for localized infections. In more extensive cases, oral antibiotics such as cephalexin or dicloxacillin may be prescribed. It is important to maintain good hygiene and avoid scratching the lesions to prevent the spread of infection.

Complications

Complications of bullous impetigo are rare but can include cellulitis, lymphangitis, and sepsis. Prompt treatment with antibiotics usually prevents these complications.

Prevention

Preventive measures include maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and keeping wounds clean and covered. In settings such as schools and daycare centers, it is important to disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated.

See also

• Impetigo
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Skin infection

Bullous impetigo on the face