Child/Chronic Rash for almost 2 months/Getting Worse

My 6 yr. old has been suffering with a chronic rash for almost 2 months now. It began with a blister by his mouth, and now has a rash covering has entire body, though it is most prominent on his back, chest, neck, and butt. It is not on his hands, feet, and only has a couple bumps on his face. The rest of his body is drenched in bumps, in which some are beginning to blister. He has been to the doctor atleast 6 times since this is been going on. He has had x-rays, blood tests, tested for Strep. He has been treated so far with steroids (1 wk.), something for strep (1 wk.), and Zyrtec (1 wk.). None of these meds has helped him out whatsoever, and the rash just continues to get worse. It is non-itchy for the most part, though sometimes one or two bumps may irritate him, itch, or become painful. Also, it has been deemed non-contagious, as he is attending school on a daily basis. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I can very well understand your concern. From the symptoms it sounds like impetigo. Summer sores is another name for impetigo. It is a superficial bacterial skin infection. Primarily caused by Staphylococcus aureus and sometimes by Streptococcus pyogenes. It is most common among children 2 to 6 years old.
Topical and oral antibiotics is the treatment of choice. My sincere advice would be to consult a dermatologist and get this possibility evaluated.

Hope it helps. Take care and do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries. Warm regards.