Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Impetigo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤒
Add to dictionary

impetigo

[ɪmˈpɛtɪɡoʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that commonly affects infants and young children but can occur in individuals of any age. It is characterized by red sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, which can rupture, ooze, and form a yellowish-brown crust. The infection is typically caused by bacteria, most often Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. Impetigo can spread through direct contact with the sores or by touching surfaces contaminated by the bacteria.

Synonyms

bacterial infection, skin infection.

Examples of usage

  • The child was diagnosed with impetigo after showing symptoms.
  • Proper hygiene can prevent the spread of impetigo in schools.
  • Impetigo is more common in warm, humid environments.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Understanding

  • Impetigo is caused by bacteria, primarily Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
  • It often starts with sores that burst, ooze, and then crust over, commonly affecting children.
  • The infection can spread through direct contact or by sharing personal items, like towels and utensils.

History

  • The term 'impetigo' originates from the Latin word 'impetere', meaning 'to attack', reflecting how the infection affects the skin.
  • Records of impetigo can be traced back to ancient civilizations, indicating it has been a known skin condition for centuries.
  • Medical texts from the Middle Ages describe impetigo, often attributing it to poor hygiene and crowded living conditions.

Global Perspectives

  • In many cultures, traditional remedies for skin infections, including impetigo, utilize herbs and natural ointments.
  • Public health campaigns in areas with high occurrences of impetigo emphasize hygiene and handwashing to prevent outbreaks.
  • In some regions, folklore may involve specific rituals or beliefs surrounding skin infections, impacting how they are treated or perceived.

Contemporary Culture

  • Awareness of skin conditions like impetigo has grown due to social media, helping people recognize symptoms more quickly.
  • Impetigo infections have appeared in various television shows and movies, typically depicted as a humorous plot point involving characters with funny-looking rashes.
  • In recent years, artists and creators have used their platforms to advocate for skin health, discussing the importance of seeking treatment for infections.

Prevention and Treatment

  • Prompt treatment with topical or oral antibiotics can effectively manage the infection and reduce the risk of spreading.
  • Keeping the infected area clean and covered helps promote healing and prevent further irritation.
  • Educating people about impetigo can lead to quicker identification and treatment, reducing its prevalence in communities.

Origin of 'impetigo'

The word 'impetigo' originates from the Latin term 'impetere,' meaning 'to attack or assail.' This reflects how the infection can rapidly affect the skin, often appearing suddenly and aggressively. The term has been used in medical literature since the 16th century. Impetigo has been recognized for centuries, with its symptoms documented in various ancient medical texts. The infection was primarily treated with herbal remedies and topical applications before the advent of modern antibiotics. With recent developments in medicine, effective treatments have been established, allowing for quicker recovery times and reduced transmission. The understanding of impetigo has evolved, focusing on prevention and hygiene practices to control outbreaks, particularly in community settings like schools and daycare centers.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,831 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.