Treatment
Your doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics by mouth (oral antibiotics). Very early cases may be treated with topical medications. More advanced forms may need antibiotics given through a vein (intravenous antibiotics).
Placing a warm wet cloth over the area can help remove ulcer crusts. Your doctor may recommend antiseptic soap or peroxide washes to speed recovery.
Prognosis (Expectations)
Unlike impetigo, ecthyma can sometimes result in scarring.
Complications
- Spread of infection to other parts of the body
- Permanent skin damage with scarring
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Make an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of ecthyma.
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Ecthyma : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Ecthyma : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Ecthyma : Treatment
Review Date : 4/17/2009
Reviewed By : Michael Lehrer, MD, Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2010 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
