Fusidic Acid Duration — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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EasyCutaneous InfectionFusidic Acid DurationSCE Dermatology

A 45-year-old woman with eczema has Staphylococcus aureus colonisation. Her dermatologist prescribes topical Fusidic acid for a localised secondary infection. What is the maximum recommended treatment duration for topical Fusidic acid?

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Correct answer: A — 2 weeks maximum — longer use promotes resistance

Topical Fusidic acid should be used for a maximum of 2 weeks for treatment of secondary bacterial infection in eczema. Longer courses promote the development of Fusidic acid-resistant S. aureus, which is an increasing problem in dermatology. BAD and NICE guidelines emphasise this time limit. If longer antimicrobial treatment is needed, topical antiseptics (Chlorhexidine wash, antiseptic bath additives) are preferred for reducing bacterial colonisation without promoting resistance. For widespread secondary infection, oral antibiotics (Flucloxacillin) are more appropriate than prolonged topical antibiotic use. The combination of Fusidic acid with a topical corticosteroid (Fucibet, Fucidin H) follows the same 2-week maximum rule.

Reference: BAD 2020 AD; NICE CG57; BNF