Question

A 3-year-old child presents with jaw pain and swelling, diagnosed as an apical abscessThe child has a known severe allergy to penicillinWhich antibiotic should be preferred for treatment in this case?

• A. Cefuroxime
• B. Clindamycin
• C. Amoxicillin
• D. Erythromycin

Hint:

Penicillin allergy in dental infections → Preferred alternative → Clindamycin.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Clinical Scenario.
An apical abscess is a bacterial infection originating from the pulp and spreading to the periapical tissuesIt commonly involves anaerobic bacteria and requires appropriate antibiotic coverage when systemic signs are present
Step 2: Consideration of Penicillin Allergy.
The child has a severe allergy to penicillinAmoxicillin is a penicillin derivative and therefore contraindicatedCephalosporins like cefuroxime may have cross-reactivity in severe penicillin allergy and should be avoided in such cases
Step 3: Appropriate Alternative.
Clindamycin is effective against gram-positive cocci and anaerobic bacteriaIt is commonly used as an alternative antibiotic in patients with penicillin allergyErythromycin is less preferred due to increasing resistance and gastrointestinal side effects
Step 4: Conclusion.
Since clindamycin provides effective coverage and is safe in penicillin-allergic patients, the correct answer is Clindamycin