Abstract:
Topical antibiotics in general have been excessively used in New Zealand in recent years. The increasing prevalence of resistance to fusidic acid in Staphylococcus aureus means that treatment will often be ineffective. Topical antibiotics may be considered for patients with localised areas of impetigo. Antibiotic treatment, whether given topically or orally, is rarely indicated for the treatment of patients with furuncles (boils) or carbuncles (multiple headed lesions). Oral antibiotics, but not topical antibiotics are indicated for wound infections, cellulitis or other deeper skin infections. It is important to reconsider the use of topical antibiotics in skin infections and reduce inappropriate prescribing.