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Acne Help (Home) > Rare Skin Disorders > Ecthyma

Ecthyma: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Ecthyma is a skin infection characterised by crusted sores beneath which ulcers form. It is a deep form of impetigo as the same bacteria causing the infection are involved but ecthyma causes deeper erosions of the skin.

Causes of Ecthyma

The streptococcal organism most often causes ecthyma. Any trauma or break in the skin allows the bacteria to begin growing.

Symptoms of Ecthyma

Ecthyma usually arises on the lower legs or feet of children, diabetics, or neglected elderly people.

Treatment for Ecthyma

Soak crusted areas

Soak a clean cloth in a mixture of half a cup of white vinegar in a litre of tepid water. Apply the compress to moist areas for about ten minutes several times a day. Gently wipe off the crusts.

Antibiotics

A topical antibiotic ointment such as fucidic acid or mupirocin is often prescribed for localised ecthyma. A topical antiseptic such as povidone iodine, antibacterial Manuka honey or Crystacide (hydrogen peroxide) cream may be used instead. Apply it at least three times a day to the affected areas and surrounding skin. The treatment should be applied after removing crusts. Look carefully for new lesions to treat. Continue for several days after healing.

Oral antibiotics

Oral antibiotics are recommended if the infection is extensive or proving slow to respond to topical antibiotics. The preferred antibiotic is penicillin, however the antibiotic chosen should be active against both Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus (usually dicloxacillin or flucloxacillin). The duration of treatment varies; several weeks of therapy may be necessary to completely resolve ecthyma.

Prevention

In tropical climates pay attention to hygiene and use insect repellents to reduce bites.

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