Topical antibacterial agents.

Topical antibacterial agents offer a useful alternative to systemic agents in certain circumstances. Uses include prophylaxis of infection for burns, traumatic wounds, and intravascular catheters, as well as eradication of S. aureus nasal carriage and treatment of primary and secondary pyodermas. Evidence supporting the use of topical agents for prophylaxis and treatment of skin and superficial wound infections and the indications for use of specific antimicrobials have been reviewed. Although topical agents are widely used, in many instances, data supporting their efficacy are only beginning to emerge.