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Impetigo — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyInfectious DiseaseImpetigoRACP Paediatrics

A 6-year-old boy presents with impetigo. He has multiple honey-crusted lesions on the face and arms. He has no systemic symptoms. What is the recommended first-line treatment?

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Correct answer: D — Topical mupirocin to lesions for 5 days

For localised impetigo without systemic symptoms, topical mupirocin ointment applied 3 times daily for 5 days is recommended as first-line treatment. Oral antibiotics (flucloxacillin or cefalexin) are reserved for widespread disease, systemic symptoms, or failure of topical therapy. In Aboriginal communities, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or co-amoxiclav may be preferred due to high MRSA rates.

Reference: Therapeutic Guidelines – 2024 – Antibiotic: Skin and Soft Tissue Infections