Final answer:
Secondary bacterial infections in eczema can be treated with a variety of antibiotics such as penicillin for streptococcal infections and TMP/SMZ, clindamycin, or doxycycline for suspected staphylococcal infections. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections might need polymyxin B or gentamicin. However, some infections are self-limiting and do not require antibiotics but instead symptomatic treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treating Secondary Infections in Eczema
When eczema becomes complicated by a secondary bacterial infection, the choice of antibiotics should be considerate of the specific pathogen involved. For example, penicillin is commonly used against cellulitis and erysipelas caused by streptococci, due to the limited resistance of these pathogens. In cases of suspected staphylococcal infections, especially when MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a concern, treatments such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMZ), clindamycin, tetracyclines like doxycycline or minocycline, or linezolid might be initiated even before antibiotic sensitivity results are in.
For infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, known for its resistance to many antibiotics, options include polymyxin B, gentamicin, and some fluoroquinolones. It's important to remember that secondary infections may result from the overuse of broad-spectrum antimicrobials, leading to superinfections which could require alternative treatments.
In some cases where the infection is self-limiting, as with certain cases of Pseudomonas skin infections, antibiotics might not be prescribed, and instead, symptomatic relief through anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroids may be advised. It is always critical to complete the full prescribed course of antibiotics to prevent the survival of resistant bacteria, which can cause recurrent infections or spread to others.