ABSTRACT
@#The pattern of antibiotics prescribed to patients with peripheral lymphadenopathy was assessed and compared with existing standard treatment guidelines (STGs) in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Information was obtained from patients referred to the Port Moresby General Hospital for fine needle aspiration biopsy by interviewing patients and reviewing patients’ clinic attendance record books and referral letters. Of the 107 patients recruited for the study, 51 (48%) were prescribed antibiotics and, of these, prescription data were obtained from 40 (78%). Amoxycillin, which is recommended as a first-line antibiotic for peripheral lymphadenopathy in PNG STGs, was prescribed in only 18/40 patients (45%). There was also high variability in other antibiotic selection, antibiotic combinations and treatment duration. The results highlight a need for ongoing training on rational antibiotic prescribing.