Local antibiotics in dermatology.

Although the vast majority of skin infection must be treated with systemic antibiotics, topical antibiotics are used overwhelmingly in the world, often as self-prescribed medications without taking into account the sensitivity of the presumed bacteria. Dermatologists are aware that different types of topical antibiotics kill different species of bacteria and tend to be more specific in their prescriptions. At present local antibiotics are advised to treat minor superficial uncomplicated skin infections (e.g., impetigo) and to prevent bacterial infections caused into minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. The role of topical antibiotics in the management of acne and atopic dermatitis is controversial. Retapamulin, a novel topical antibacterial agent, will probably replace the use of the old mupirocin and fusidic acid.