Question

Erik presents with one golden-crusted lesion at the site of an insect bite consistent with impetigo. His parents have limited finances and request the least expensive-treatment. Which medication would be the best choice for treatment?

Answer 1

For Erik with impetigo, a cost-effective treatment would be a topical antibiotic ointment like mupirocin or retapamulin, while keeping the area clean.

Step-by-step explanation:

For Erik, who presents with a golden-crusted lesion consistent with impetigo at the site of an insect bite, a cost-effective treatment option would be a topical antibiotic ointment. Since impetigo can be caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, and given the financial constraints, over-the-counter topical antibiotics like mupirocin or retapamulin may be considered as the most economical choices. It is essential to keep the area clean and apply the ointment as instructed. In cases where impetigo is caused by S. pyogenes, there's a risk of acute glomerulonephritis (AGN), so monitoring and prompt treatment are necessary. However, for a single, localized lesion, such as Erik's, topical treatment is generally sufficient.