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Impetigo is a superficial skin infection caused predominantly by Staphylococcus aureus, less commonly by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A streptococci); (see feature article in JW Dermatology Sep 2001, p. 74, accession number 0108140006). The condition is usually self-limited, but systemic or topical antibiotics seem to hasten its resolution. These Dutch investigators studied topical treatment of impetigo in 160 children younger than 13, comparing the efficacy of fusidic acid, an antistaphylococcal agent used in Europe, and placebo cream, both used in conjunction with povidone-iodine shampoo.
Most infections were caused by S. aureus. Infection was eradicated (bacterial cure) by the end of week 1 in 91% of fusidic acid patients, compared with …