Treatment:

The infection is treated with antibiotics for about 10 days, depending on how well and quickly it appears to be working. Penicillin is the most often used antibiotic in children who are not allergic to it.

Mupirocin can be applied directly to the skin (topical). It can be used along with other antibiotics, but should not be the only treatment.

Expectations (prognosis):

Children usually recover quickly with antibiotic treatment. It is important to contact your health care provider if your child does not get better soon on antibiotics.

Complications:

• Anal scarring, fistula, or abscess
• Bleeding, discharge
• Bloodstream or other streptococcal infections (including heart, joint, and bone)
• Kidney disease (acute glomerulonephritis)
• Severe skin and soft tissue infection (necrotizing fasciitis)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your child complains of pain in the rectal area, painful bowel movements, or other symptoms of perianal streptococcal cellulitis.

If your child is taking antibiotics for this condition and the area of redness gets worse, or the discomfort or fever are increasing, call your health care provider immediately.