IMPETIGO CONTAGIOSA Treatment

Impetigo contagiosa and its more serious variant pemphigus neonatorum are due to superficial infection of the epidermis with pathogenic staphylococci or streptococci. It is a common sequel to chicken-pox. Not infrequently pedi­culosis capitis or scabies are the underlying diseases ; if present these conditions should be treated first. For localized outbreaks the application of chlortetra-cycline ointment is suitable, after having removed the crusts by bathing or with starch poultices. A swab should be taken before starting treatment so that, in the event of the disease failing to respond, no time will be lost in prescribing an appropriate alternative. When the lesions are extensive it is more satisfactory to give oxytetracycline by mouth in full doses, as for an acute infection. The cure of the impetigo often reveals an unsuspected eczema requiring appropriate treatment. Failure of the impetigo to respond calls for a review of the diagnosis; in particular the possibility of underlying ringworm should be considered. The occurrence of a case of pemphigus neonatorum in a maternity unit calls for an urgent bacteriological survey of the patients and staff.