Rational use of antibiotics in skin disease

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance has become more common in recent years in both human and veterinary medicine. To try to limit the development of antibiotic resistance, responsible stewardship of antibiotics should be practiced. Systemic antibiotics are commonly administered in dermatology cases. When they are used they should only be prescribed when infection is confirmed on cytology and where topical therapy is deemed inappropriate. When antibiotics are used the clinician should select, where possible, drugs based on culture and susceptibility, and ensure that the correct dose is used for the correct length of time based on the depth of the infection.