Is Impetigo caused by a Gram-positive or Gram-negative infection?

Impetigo is caused by a Gram-positive infection, primarily due to bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. These bacteria are characterized by their thick peptidoglycan cell wall, which retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram-staining process, resulting in a purple appearance under the microscope. The Gram-positive classification is crucial for understanding the nature of the causative agents and for selecting appropriate antibiotic treatments since Gram-positive infections typically respond to antibiotics that target their cellular structure, such as penicillins and cephalosporins. Other options in the question do not accurately describe the etiology of impetigo; while it is indeed a bacterial infection, the specific identification as Gram-positive is essential for a more informed understanding of its causes and implications in medical practice.