Final answer:
Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection mainly caused by S. aureus or S. pyogenes, which results in sores around the mouth and nose. It is diagnosed by its appearance and sometimes with testing, and it is treated with topical or oral antibiotics, such as Mupirocin for localized cases. MRSA is a resistant strain posing treatment challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection that is especially prevalent among children. It is often characterized by vesicles, pustules, or bullae that rupture and produce encrusted sores, primarily around the mouth and nose areas. While impetigo can be caused by a single pathogen, it is frequently a result of infection by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes), or a combination of both. The diagnosis is typically made through observation of the infection's characteristic appearance, possibly complemented by culture and susceptibility tests. Clinically, it's essential to consider the potential for serious sequelae, such as acute glomerulonephritis, when S. pyogenes is involved.
Treatment includes the use of antibiotics, with topical Mupirocin being effective for localized cases. However, some strains like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are resistant to commonly used antibiotics, and such infections require more targeted therapy. Preventative measures are crucial to controlling the spread of impetigo, as it can be easily transmitted through skin-to-skin contact or sharing personal items like towels.