Amy Winehouse has been forced to take time off work after she was diagnosed with impetigo - a highly contagious skin condition.

The troubled star sparked rumours she may have been involved in a fight after she was photographed on Friday with a painful-looking swelling on the side of her face.

But the 24-year-old's representative has now confirmed her swollen face is down to a bout of impetigo and the singer will have to spend time in isolation to stop the infection spreading.

He says, "Amy has been diagnosed with impetigo which she's been told can be highly contagious."

"Because of that she's been put on antibiotics and may have to stay home alone for the next few days."