Overview
Impetigo is a superficial skin infection caused by either streptococci or staphylococci. Here it is on the buttocks, but it is seen more frequently in children on the face, upper chest, and arms. (Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)
Review Date 11/18/2022
Updated by: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.