Managing skin infections in children

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Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus, together or separately, cause most common superficial pyodermatous skin infections in children. Although local therapy may suffice for impetigo bullosa, systemic antibiotics may be needed for impetigo contagiosa to prevent recurrence and spread to other persons. Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome should also be treated with systemic agents, because the infection is potentially fatal.