In the treatment of impetigo, which antibiotic is commonly used for small lesions?

Topical mupirocin is commonly used for the treatment of impetigo, particularly for small lesions. Mupirocin is an antibiotic that is effective against the common causative organisms of impetigo, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Its topical application is advantageous as it allows for localized treatment, minimizing systemic side effects and improving compliance, especially in pediatric patients.

Mupirocin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which is essential for bacterial growth and replication. It is also noted for its good penetration into the skin and its ability to eradicate the bacteria from the site of infection effectively. Due to these properties, mupirocin is the preferred choice for treating localized cases of impetigo, making it an appropriate selection in this scenario.

In comparison, while other antibiotics may be beneficial in certain situations, they are typically not the first-line treatment for small lesions of impetigo. Oral antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or ciprofloxacin, are generally reserved for more extensive infections or systemic symptoms. Likewise, topical clindamycin may also be effective but is not as commonly prescribed as mupirocin for this specific condition.