Impetigo is a common infection of the superficial layers of the epidermis that is highly contagious and most commonly caused by gram-positive bacteria. It most commonly presents as erythematous plaques with a yellow crust and may be itchy or painful. The lesions are highly contagious and spread easily.

Impetigo is a disease of children who reside in hot humid climates. The infection may be bullous or nonbullous. The infection typically affects the face but can also occur in any other part of the body that has an abrasion, laceration, insect bite or other trauma.

If you have impetigo in only a small area of your skin, topical antibiotic creams, gels, or ointments are the preferred treatment. Options include mupirocin cream or ointment and retapamulin ointment.