Uncomplicated impetigo can be treated with which topical agent?

Uncomplicated impetigo can be treated with which topical agent?

• A. Mupirocin
• B. Neomycin ointment
• C. Antibiotic pills
• D. Hydrocortisone cream

Answer: (A)

Uncomplicated impetigo is a superficial skin infection that is best treated with a topical antibiotic when the disease is localized. Mupirocin fits this scenario well because it directly kills the bacteria on the skin by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis (it blocks isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase) and is effective against the common culprits, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Using a topical agent minimizes systemic exposure and is typically sufficient for mild, localized disease, helping to reduce contagion quickly. Neomycin ointment carries a notable risk of contact dermatitis and may be less reliably effective for impetigo, making it a less favorable choice. Antibiotic pills are reserved for more extensive disease or when topical therapy fails or isn’t feasible. Hydrocortisone cream provides anti-inflammatory effects but no antibacterial action, so it won’t treat the infection and could potentially worsen bacterial growth if used alone.

Uncomplicated impetigo is a superficial skin infection that is best treated with a topical antibiotic when the disease is localized. Mupirocin fits this scenario well because it directly kills the bacteria on the skin by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis (it blocks isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase) and is effective against the common culprits, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Using a topical agent minimizes systemic exposure and is typically sufficient for mild, localized disease, helping to reduce contagion quickly.

Neomycin ointment carries a notable risk of contact dermatitis and may be less reliably effective for impetigo, making it a less favorable choice. Antibiotic pills are reserved for more extensive disease or when topical therapy fails or isn’t feasible. Hydrocortisone cream provides anti-inflammatory effects but no antibacterial action, so it won’t treat the infection and could potentially worsen bacterial growth if used alone.