impetigo

[ im-pi-tahy-goh ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a contagious skin disease, especially of children, usually caused by streptococcal bacteria, marked by a superficial pustular eruption, particularly on the face.

impetigo

/ ˌɪmpɪˈtɪdʒɪnəs; ˌɪmpɪˈtaɪɡəʊ /

noun

1. a contagious bacterial skin disease characterized by the formation of pustules that develop into yellowish crusty sores

impetigo

/ ĭm′pĭ-tī′gō /

1. A contagious skin infection caused by staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria and seen most commonly in children. Impetigo is characterized by superficial pustules that rupture and form thick yellow crusts, usually on the face.

Derived Forms

• impetiginous, adjective

Other Words From

• im·pe·tig·i·nous [im-pi-, tij, -, uh, -n, uh, s], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of impetigo¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin impetīgō, equivalent to impet ( ere ) to make for, attack ( impetus ) + -īgō, as in vertīgō vertigo

Word History and Origins

Origin of impetigo¹

C16: from Latin: scabby eruption, from impetere to assail; see impetus ; for form, compare vertigo

Example Sentences

Ali McKerrow, whose young son was prescribed an impetigo cream at the pharmacy, says the scheme will help working parents.

From BBC

It’s a health issue, with higher rates of respiratory illnesses and skin infections like impetigo and boils where plumbing doesn’t exist.

From Seattle Times

Group A strep bacteria can cause many different infections, including the skin infection impetigo which causes sores, scarlet fever and strep throat.

From BBC

The bacteria doesn’t always cause illness, but it can cause tonsillitis, sore throat, skin rashes, scarlet fever and impetigo.

From New York Times

“The problem with the mask itself is … I could go on and on with the list of problems: pustulosis of the nose, impetigo of the face … migraine headaches, fatigue, confusion,” he added.

From Washington Times