What is an effective and cost-effective treatment for impetigo from an insect bite?

The selection of Bacitracin and Polymyxin B as a treatment for impetigo following an insect bite is a fitting choice due to several key factors. This combination is effective against the types of bacteria that commonly cause impetigo, particularly Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The topical application of these antibiotics allows for direct delivery to the site of infection, which can enhance local treatment and reduce systemic side effects associated with oral medications.

Moreover, the combination of Bacitracin and Polymyxin B is generally well-tolerated, carries a low risk of systemic absorption, and minimizes the likelihood of developing antibiotic resistance compared to broader-spectrum systemic therapies. This approach is especially relevant in cases of superficial skin infections like impetigo, where localized treatment can suffice.

Topical hydrocortisone, while useful for inflammation, does not have antibacterial properties and would not effectively treat an active infection. Clindamycin ointment could be effective but is typically more costly and often reserved for cases where specific antibiotic resistance is suspected or in treatment of deeper infections. Oral antibiotics are indeed effective but can incur higher costs and unwanted systemic side effects, making topical therapies a more suitable initial choice for localized infections like impetigo resulting from an