Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that typically affects young children. It is most often caused by a bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. Affected individuals present with sores that break open leading to honey-colored crusts and scabs. Though lesions can be found anywhere, the face (around the nose and mouth) and extremities (hands and feet) are favored locations. The condition can be self-limited and resolve without therapy, but treatment with topical and oral antibiotics is recommended due to the highly contagious nature of the infection.
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