| Ecthyma is a skin infection showing signs like to impetigo, but it is severe. Streptococcus infection causes ecthyma. It passes from the epidermis to dermis causing scars all the way from the outer layer to the inner layer of the skin. Streptococcal and staphylococcal bacteria cause the infection. The infections can occur at any levels and depth of the skin, since the bacteria enter the skin from the outer layer and pass deeper and deeper in to the skin. While doing so, it creates rashes deeper in the skin. A bug bite or a scratch may initiate the infection.
Ecthyma is a very serious stage of impetigo. The infection travels deep into the second layer of the skin-the dermis. While passing, it causes painful pus filled itchy sores with hard grayish yellow crusts. In case, ulcers are formed, it may result in permanent scars. There could be swelling of the lymph nodes in the area of infection. Ecthyma starts off as a small blister on a swollen part of the skin. A hard cover envelops the blister. It is difficult to remove or cut the crust to see the underlying ulcer.
The ulcer could red, inflamed and filled with pus. The rashes may remain or they may be treated on its own immediately, or their severity may increase and the may grow in size. These sores are normally found on the buttocks, thighs, legs, ankle and feet. The local lymph nodes may be inflamed and may cause severe pain and irritation. Worsened impetigo contagiosa can develop into ecthyma. This happens with aged people, diabetics and people with weak immune systems.
Doctors may prescribe antibiotic cream and oral doses to patients. The treatment would be based on the location and the stage of infection. If there is any other skin disease, then that should also be taken care of. Dip a clean cloth in the solution of half a cup of white vinegar in a liter of lukewarm water. Apply the solution to moist areas for ten to fifteen minutes three to four times a day. Remove the crusts slowly and carefully. Doctor may prescribe fucidic acid or mupirocin as topical antibiotic. Apply antiseptic cream to the wound and the surrounding area three to four times in a day.
The antiseptic cream should be applied only after removing the crusts. Check for new scars. The treatment should be continued for many days even after the wound is healed. In case of very severe infection, doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics in addition to the topical medicines. Generally, penicillin is prescribed. The treatment may take several weeks or months to get rid off ecthyma completely. During the treatment of ecthyma, the patient should take care of personal hygiene. The scars should be cleaned with ant bacterial soap. All the personal belongings of the patient bed sheets, towel, and clothes, under garments should be washed regularly and properly. Do not share your belongings with any other person.
Have patience and complete the full course to prevent recurrence of the disease.
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