Impetigo is a common superficial bacterial infection caused by either streptococci or staphylococci, or both. Impetigo is usually symptomatic with itching and burning. It begins as one or more red papules and over 2 to 3 days expands to a crusted patch. The condition can be nonbullous or bullous. In nonbullous impetigo, there are circular patches of scaling, superficial erosions, and honey-colored crusts (Fig. 27-1). The patches are usually periorificial on the face, especially around the nose and mouth. Bullous impetigo presents as flaccid, pus-filled lakes, which are often eroded at the time of presentation. This form occurs most commonly in intertriginous areas (Fig. 27-2). Bullae are 1 to 3 cm in diameter. There are no constitutional symptoms. Children are affected most often.