From the Research
For treating boils in children, the first-line antibiotic treatment typically includes cephalexin (Keflex) or clindamycin, depending on local resistance patterns, with a focus on targeting Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA) 1.
Key Considerations
- Cephalexin is often dosed at 25-50 mg/kg/day divided into four doses for 7-10 days.
- Clindamycin may be given at 10-30 mg/kg/day divided into three or four doses for 7-10 days.
- Many uncomplicated boils can be treated with warm compresses and proper incision and drainage alone, without antibiotics.
- Antibiotics are primarily indicated when there are multiple lesions, surrounding cellulitis, systemic symptoms, or if the child has underlying medical conditions that increase infection risk.
Evidence Summary
Studies have shown that clindamycin is effective in treating children with invasive infections caused by susceptible CA-MRSA isolates 2, and that ceftriaxone plus clindamycin is a common and effective treatment regimen for retropharyngeal abscess caused by MRSA 3.
Important Notes
- It's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve quickly.
- Seek medical attention if the boil worsens, if fever develops, or if the child shows signs of spreading infection.
- The choice of antibiotic should be guided by local resistance patterns and the severity of the infection.