$Unique_ID{BRK01062} $Pretitle{} $Title{Is There a Way to Treat Blistering Sores in Children} $Subject{staph impetigo Skin Infections infection streptococcus staphylococcus bacteria bacterium bacterial antibiotic penicillin erythromycin antibiotics penicillins face facial sore sores arm arms leg legs rash rashes} $Volume{A-20} $Log{} Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc. Is There a Way to Treat Blistering Sores in Children ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ QUESTION: I have been caring for some oozing sores on my youngster's face by careful washing with soap and water, but it is not getting any better. It is very hard for us to get to a doctor, and this seems like such a little thing. Can you tell me how to treat this thing? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANSWER: The most common cause of blistering sores in children is called impetigo, an infection often passed on in crowded or unsanitary environments. The sores are small, no larger than 1 to 2 millimeters across, and often appear in groups on the child's face, arms or legs. In bullous impetigo, the sores can be much larger, up to a half-inch in diameter. Washing won't clear up your son's condition; this bug has to be fought from the inside out, and it is not just a minor rash, but a serious condition. It is a skin infection usually caused by a streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria. A doctor should diagnose this condition and prescribe an appropriate antibiotic. A penicillin injection may do the trick, but if your son's allergic to penicillin (or just afraid of needles), and when the bacteria is resistant to penicillin, erythromycin taken in pill or capsule form for ten days is equally effective. While the medication is working, try to prevent your child from picking at the crusts and scabs that form over the sores. Keep hands and fingers clean by frequent washing. In the meantime you should be cautious about keeping family wash cloths, towels and other linen separate, to prevent the spread of this infection to other members of the family. Be sure to wash and clean your youngster's cloths most carefully, keeping them separate from your other laundry, and boiling them or washing them in very hot soapy water. ---------------- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.