Definition
Impetigo Contagiosa is a bacterial disease of the skin. The cause can be an infection with Staphylococcus aureus or streptococci. The main symptoms of impetigo contagiosa are weeping skin changes with crust and blister formation.
The infection with staphylococci is described as rather large-bubbled, the form with streptococci rather as small-bubbled. Usually the blisters burst very quickly on the skin, so that the wounds have a smooth border. Impetigo Contagiosa is more common in children. The disease is highly contagious, which is why strict hygiene must be observed.
Cause of Impetigo Contagiosa
The cause of Impetigo Contagiosa can be two pathogens. Impetigo Contagiosa Vulgaris is caused by Streptococci, Impetigo Contagiosa Bullosum by the bacterium Staphylococcus Aureus. While Impetigo Contagiosa Vulgaris is rather small-bubbled, Impetigo Contagiosa Bullosum is rather large-bubbled.
However, both diseases show the same symptoms. In addition to the skin symptoms, general malaise and fever may also be present. If symptoms occur, a pediatrician or a dermatologist should be consulted.
Diagnosis of Impetigo Contagiosa
The diagnosis can usually be made by an experienced pediatrician or dermatologist by eye. If this is not the case, a smear can be taken from the blisters to detect the pathogen. In most cases, however, the symptoms are so impressive that a smear is not necessary. The main symptom indicating impetigo contagiosa is a honey yellow crust formation. The editors also recommend: Skin rash with blisters
Is there an obligation to register the Impetigo Contagiosa?
The Impetigo Contagiosa is subject to the obligation to register. Since streptococci are the most common pathogens of Impetigo Contagiosa, the risk of infection is very high. If streptococci occur in a child at the day care center or school, the child must be reported to the management of the respective institution.
Since the disease is very likely to be transmitted, attention should be paid to symptoms in the other children/staff of the facility. Streptococci can cause tonsillitis and erysipelas in addition to the image of impetigo contagiosa. Furthermore, the pathogens can cause a number of secondary diseases, which have become very rare due to the good antibiotic supply. These include rheumatic fever, which can result in valvular defects of the heart, and glomerulonephritis, which can lead to functional impairment of the kidneys. If streptococci enter the bloodstream, they can cause blood poisoning (sepsis)
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