What is recommended for widespread or bullous impetigo?

In cases of widespread or bullous impetigo, the recommended treatment involves the use of oral antibiotics, specifically Cephalexin or Dicloxacillin. This approach is appropriate because widespread impetigo indicates a more extensive skin infection that may not be adequately addressed with topical treatments. Oral antibiotics are effective in treating the causative bacteria, typically Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, particularly in cases that involve significant lesions or when the patient shows systemic symptoms.

Topical corticosteroids are not suitable for treating infections like bullous impetigo since they can potentially exacerbate the infection or delay healing. Supportive care alone would not address the bacterial infection, making it insufficient for managing widespread cases. Intravenous antibiotics might be necessary in severe or life-threatening situations, but for mild to moderate widespread cases, oral antibiotics are the standard first-line treatment.