Experimental Infection of the Skin in the Hamster Simulating Human Impetigo

The efficacy of various therapeutic regimens for the treatment of impetigo was assessed in an experimental animal model. The topical application of gentamicin or bacitracin and removal of scabs were ineffectual. PHisoHex scrubbing delayed healing significantly and resulted in the development of satellite lesions. Healing was significantly promoted by the administration of penicillin, the benzathine variety being more effective than procaine penicillin. Benzathine penicillin was similarly effective in pure streptococcal lesions and in mixed lesions containing penicillin-sensitive or penicillin-resistant staphylococci in addition to streptococci. The development of skin lesions was markedly reduced following prophylactic administration of benzathine penicillin.