Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin in which the face is most often involved. This highly contagious skin disease is most frequently caused by the Streptococcus and the Staphylococcus bacteria. Impetigo first starts as discolored spots which then form small blisters. Bacteria laden fluid spreads to surrounding skin by touching or scratching once the blisters break. The weeping lesion rapidly forms a yellow, honey-colored crust or scab, and the surrounding skin becomes red. Eventually, impetigo heals without treatment or scarring though blemishes may remain for up to 6 months.

The main reason for aggressive therapy of impetigo is the rare occurrence of a serious complication. Just like strep throat can lead to rheumatic fever if not treated, the strains of strep responsible for impetigo can set off a chain reaction in the immune system leading to acute glomerulonephritis ("Bright’s Disease"), a severe and rapidly progressive form of kidney disease.

For this reason, most authorities advise treating impetigo. For years, the therapy of choice was an antibiotic, such as penicillin or erythromycin. Recently, a topical antibiotic ointment, mupirocin (Bactroban), has been shown to be as effective as oral antibiotic. The bacteria thrives under the crusts, so the scabs should be removed so the topical medication can reach the offending germs. Consult your child’s physician to see which therapy is best for your youngster. The child is contagious until the impetigo begins to heal, so they should avoid close contact with other children. Parents should notify their child’s teacher or baby sitter of the diagnosis so that other children can be checked for impetigo. If not, the healed child might go back to school only to get reinfected again!

WHITE SPOTS ON THE SKIN

Parents are usually unhappy to discover rounded white patches on their children’s skin. This disorder, known medically as pityriasis alba, is characterized by the temporary loss of skin pigmentation. These non-contagious white patches usually occur on the face, neck, upper trunk, and extremities. While the exact cause is unknown, most cases appear following sun exposure and may represents a mild form of atopic or allergic dermatitis. Pityriasis alba is often confused with ringworm.

The condition can sometimes last two to three years. Topical hydrocortisone is sometimes effective in providing some cosmetic relief. Since dry skin also contributes to the condition, the concerned child should be instructed not to over wash the area and use moisturizers to lessen dryness and scaling. Both parent and child alike should be reassured that the condition is not serious and will go away on its own.

HIVES

Hives are itchy raised red welts or pink spots with pale centers. Ranging in size from 1/2 inch to several inches across, hives rapidly change location, size, and shape, and sometimes appear and disappear in crops several times a day.As many as 20% of youngsters will experience this non-contagious skin disorder sometime during their childhood. Hives represent an allergic reaction to something taken internally, most often a medicine or food. Hives can also be caused by viral infections, insect bites, pollens, plants and another substances. However, in most cases the cause remains a mystery. Treatment for hives includes trying to find the offending agent and the use of antihistamines to relieve itching. A cool bath will also make the child feel better. Most hives clear completely in 3 to 4 days, but occasionally they leave a bluish discoloration on the skin for another day or two. Hives are harmless unless they cause difficulty breathing or throat swelling. While these complications are rare, they require immediate treatment by your child’s physician.

MOLES