Literature Review: Prevalence and Management of Impetigo in Children
Abstract
Impetigo is a highly contagious superficial bacterial skin infection that commonly affects children. Its high incidence worldwide, limited epidemiological data in Indonesia, evolving treatment options, and increasing antibiotic resistance highlight the importance of studying its prevalence and management. This study aimed to determine the risk factors, prevalence, and management of impetigo in children based on recent scientific literature. A literature review was conducted by searching PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, and ProQuest. Articles published between 2021 and 2026 were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria and analyzed descriptively. Fifteen eligible articles were included. Impetigo most frequently occurred among children aged 2–5 years through school age. Prevalence varied across regions and was higher in areas characterized by population density, poor sanitation, and a high incidence of scabies. Commonly reported risk factors included age, poor hygiene, overcrowding, and comorbid skin diseases. Management was adjusted according to disease severity. Topical antibiotics, including mupirocin, fusidic acid, retapamulin, and ozenoxacin, were used for mild and localized cases, whereas systemic antibiotics, such as cephalexin, dicloxacillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, or clindamycin, were used for extensive or severe cases and suspected Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Increasing resistance to several topical antibiotics remains a concern when selecting therapy. Impetigo remains common among children, with regional variations in prevalence. Management based on lesion extent, clinical condition, and antibiotic resistance patterns is essential to improve treatment success and prevent complications and transmission. This study may serve as a reference for healthcare professionals in preventing and managing childhood impetigo.
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