Ecthyma

Ecthyma, a term applied to certain forms of pustular eruption of the skin. The individual pustules may be as large as a split pea; after a while the contained matter escapes and scabs are formed, the healing process being sometimes very slow. The term impetigo is often used as synonymous with ecthyma. One variety of the affection is markedly contagious (impetigo contagiosa); it commonly occurs in young children. The local treatment of ecthyma is practically identical with that of eczema (q.v.); the general health is almost always at fault, and tonics and change of air are usually indicated.