Amy Winehouse's Impetigo: Crusty Bacterial Rash To Blame For Face Woes, Says Spokeswoman

Grammy-winning Amy Winehouse was spotted in London with a swollen, lumpy left cheek and concealer-covered bruising. Her spokeswoman is claiming impetigo:

Amy's spokesman told the News of the World: "Amy has been diagnosed with impetigo which she's been told can be highly contagious. Because of that se's been put on antibiotics and may have to stay home alone for the next few days."

Impetigo is an infection of the skin caused by a bacteria which causes a blistered crusty rash. But it does not cause swelling.

Dr Hilary Jones agreed and speculated on other causes of such swelling and bruising:

"I think the most likely explanation is a direct blow, either accidental or deliberate. A skin complaint wouldn't cause swelling."

"It could be she's walked into a door or fallen over--which is very likely with her drug habit."

It has been reported that Winehouse is back on drugs following a pre-Grammy stint in rehab.

Read about impetigo on Mayo Clinic's website.