From the Guidelines
Impetigo typically does not cause long-term side effects when treated promptly and appropriately, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as cellulitis, scarring, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, and rarely, sepsis. Most cases of impetigo resolve completely within 7-10 days with proper antibiotic treatment, such as mupirocin ointment applied twice daily for 5 days or oral antibiotics like cephalexin for more widespread infections 1. The bacteria causing impetigo, usually Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, can easily spread through direct contact, which is why prompt treatment and hygiene measures are essential for preventing both complications and transmission to others.
Some key points to consider in the management of impetigo include:
- Starting treatment at the first sign of impetigo to prevent complications
- Completing the full course of prescribed antibiotics even if symptoms improve quickly
- Practicing good hygiene, including regular handwashing, avoiding sharing personal items, and keeping fingernails short to prevent scratching and spreading the infection
- Using oral therapy for ecthyma or impetigo with an agent active against S. aureus, such as dicloxacillin or cephalexin, unless cultures yield streptococci alone, in which case oral penicillin is recommended 1
- Considering systemic antimicrobials for infections during outbreaks of poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis to help eliminate nephritogenic strains of S. pyogenes from the community 1
It's also important to note that temporary skin discoloration at the infection site is common but typically fades within weeks to months. However, if left untreated, impetigo can lead to more serious complications, such as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, which can occur 1-3 weeks after streptococcal impetigo 1. Therefore, prompt treatment and proper management of impetigo are crucial to prevent long-term side effects and complications.
From the Research
Long-term Side Effects of Impetigo
The long-term side effects of impetigo are rare, but can be serious. Some possible long-term side effects include:
- Poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN), a kidney disease that can occur after a streptococcal infection, such as impetigo 2, 3
- Chronic kidney disease, which can develop if PSGN is not treated 3
- Scarring, although this is rare and usually only occurs in cases of bullous impetigo 2
Risk Factors for Long-term Side Effects
Certain factors can increase the risk of long-term side effects from impetigo, including:
- Untreated or inadequately treated infections 3
- Infections caused by nephritogenic strains of group A beta-hemolytic streptococci 3
- Presence of other underlying medical conditions, such as kidney disease 3
Prevention of Long-term Side Effects
Preventing long-term side effects from impetigo involves: