For eyelid infections or preseptal cellulitis, which cephalosporin would you most likely use?

• A. Cephalexin
• B. Ceftriaxone
• C. Cefdinir
• D. Cefazolin

Answer: (A)

Outpatient eyelid infections like preseptal cellulitis are usually caused by skin bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species. Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin that works well against these gram-positive cocci and is available orally, making it convenient for nonhospitalized patients. This fits the typical mild, outpatient scenario where IV therapy isn’t needed and broad gram-negative coverage isn’t required. Other options listed are either injectable (cefazolin) or have broader coverage or a different setting of use (ceftriaxone, cefdinir), which isn’t as appropriate for straightforward outpatient preseptal cellulitis.