Antibiotic Resistance in Dermatology Part 2: Combating Resistance

Austinn C. Miller, MD; Susuana Adjei, MD; Laurie A. Temiz, BA; Sonali Batta, BS, MS; Stephen K. Tyring, MD, PhD, MBA

Skin Therapy Letter. 2023;28(2):6-9.

Abstract and Introduction

Abstract

Virtually any antibiotic can be used in dermatology given the broad range of conditions treated. With the widespread use of antibiotics and the rapid emergence of resistant organisms, it is important to understand how dermatologists can combat this issue.

Introduction

There are many reasons for the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Aside from rampant use in agriculture settings, poor antibiotic stewardship among physicians is a major contributor. Dermatologists play an essential role in this process given the significant incidence of inflammatory dermatoses, as well as skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) treated with antibiotics. Furthermore, dermatologists have a higher rate of prescribing antibiotics compared to other specialists.^[1] Therefore, it is crucial for dermatologists to understand strategies to combat bacterial resistance and reduce its global burden.