Question

A 41-year-old man with a history of intravenous drug use presents with a swollen, erythematous right forearm with central fluctuance and surrounding cellulitis. He is febrile and tachycardic but haemodynamically stable. What is the most appropriate management

Accepted Answer

Intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics and urgent surgical drainage

Answer

Oral Flucloxacillin and discharge

Answer

Topical antibiotic cream and review in one week

Answer

Aspiration with a fine needle in the GP surgery

Answer

Warm compresses only

Practice question

A 41-year-old man with a history of intravenous drug use presents with a swollen, erythematous right forearm with central fluctuance and surrounding cellulitis. He is febrile and tachycardic but haemodynamically stable. What is the most appropriate management