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Cellulitis — UKMLA MCQ

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MediumInfectious DiseasesCellulitisUKMLAMRCGP AKTMRCEM SBAMRCP Part 1PSA

A 50-year-old diabetic patient presents with cellulitis on the left lower leg. According to NICE, which antibiotic is recommended first-line for uncomplicated cellulitis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: AFlucloxacillin

Flucloxacillin is recommended first-line for uncomplicated cellulitis caused by streptococci or penicillinase-producing staphylococci. Alternatives like clarithromycin or clindamycin are used if there is penicillin allergy. The keyed option is the best answer only in the stated clinical context. The alternatives would require different findings, contraindications, thresholds or treatment circumstances that are not present. Apply the recommendation alongside comorbidity, interactions, patient preference and the current local pathway. Review response and safety-net for deterioration, treatment failure or adverse effects; reconsider the diagnosis if the expected response does not occur.

Reference: NICE Cellulitis Guideline: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/