Impetigo

• Impetigo OR eczema + visible signs of infection: Fluclox 7/7 (clarithro if allergic) OR topical fusidic acid 5/7 (Mupirocin if MRSA). Pregnancy/BF: fluclox (erythro if allergic)

A 6-year-old boy has had mild facial impetigo for 2 days and is otherwise well. Which is the SINGLE MOST appropriate treatment?

• Topical hydrocortisone

• Topical neomycin

• Oral phenoxymethylpenicillin

• Topical fusidic acid

• Oral erythromycin

Topical mupirocin or fusidic acid are effective in the treatment of impetigo. Hydrogen peroxide 1% cream is now also considered as 1st-line treatment for people who are not systemically unwell or at a high risk of complications.

References

• Impetigo: antimicrobial prescribing (NG 153, 2020), Impetigo (CKS), Impetigo (PCDS)