Honey Crusts to Butterfly Rash: Impetigo vs Erysipelas vs Cellulitis in Kids
Understanding Superficial Bacterial Skin Infections in Children: A Practical Guide for Medical Students & Young Doctors - (With Focus on Impetigo, Erysipelas, and Cellulitis) ### Introduction - Among the most common reasons parents rush to the pediatrician or dermatologist is a child with “oozing sores” on the face, arms, or legs. In dermatology and pediatrics, the vast majority of these cases fall under superficial pyodermas (bacterial skin infections) caused mainly by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus) and Staphylococcus aureus. The three classic entities every student must master are: 1. Impetigo (non-bullous & bullous) 2. Erysipelas 3. Cellulitis Although they are caused by almost the same bacteria, the depth of skin involvement decides the clinical picture, complications, and slight differences in management. ### 1. Impetigo – The Classic “Honey-Crusted” Infection Impetigo is the m...