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impetigo%20-and-%20ecthyma%20(pediatric)
IMPETIGO & ECTHYMA (PEDIATRIC)
Treatment Guideline Chart
Impetigo is a very contagious, superficial, bacterial skin infection that easily spreads among people in close contact.
Most cases resolve spontaneously without scarring in approximately 14 days without treatment.
Ecthyma is deeply ulcerated form of impetigo that extends to the dermis. The ulcers are "punched-out" with yellow crust and elevated violaceous margins.
It may be an infection de novo or a superinfection.

Impetigo%20-and-%20ecthyma%20(pediatric) Patient Education

Patient Education

  • To prevent contagious spread, patient should avoid contact with noninfected persons and avoid sharing of towels, sheets, etc
  • Child must not return to daycare or school until there is no further crusting or until 24 hours after initiation of antibiotic treatment
  • Practice simple cleanliness (eg washing hands after contact with infected persons, daily baths)
    • Daily bath with soap and water
  • Daily cleaning of the lesions with antiseptic soap and water may prevent recurrence at distant sites
  • Keep the child’s fingernails short and to avoid scratching the lesions
  • Improve nutritional status and treat underlying conditions
  • Return child for follow-up if condition did not improve 7 days after starting therapy or sooner if condition worsened
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