Final answer:
The appropriate topical antibiotic for a patient with hidradenitis suppurativa is clindamycin. This antibiotic helps manage the bacterial growth and the associated inflammation of the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The topical antibiotic that may be used in a patient with hidradenitis suppurativa is clindamycin. This condition can be painful and may require medical treatment including antibiotics to manage the infection. Topical clindamycin is commonly prescribed as it helps reduce bacterial growth and inflammation.
In some cases, antibiotics such as clindamycin or metronidazole are used. Additionally, drugs effective against MRSA, like clindamycin, are often chosen for suspected S. aureus infections, which can sometimes be associated with hidradenitis suppurativa.