CDT Dermatologic Pharmacology & Medications Flashcards

What is the primary dermatologic use of topical retinoids like tretinoin?

Answer: Treating acne and photoaging

Topical tretinoin treats acne by normalizing follicular keratinization and photoaging by stimulating collagen production and accelerating epidermal cell turnover.

What condition are biologic agents like dupilumab (Dupixent) approved to treat?

Answer: Moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis

Dupilumab blocks IL-4 and IL-13 receptor signaling and is approved for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis unresponsive to topical therapies.

What is the most common adverse effect of prolonged topical corticosteroid use on the face?

Answer: Skin atrophy and telangiectasias

Prolonged facial use of topical corticosteroids causes skin atrophy, visible telangiectasias, and perioral dermatitis due to chronic steroid effect on thin facial skin.

Antifungal agents like ketoconazole shampoo are used to treat which scalp condition?

Answer: Seborrheic dermatitis

Ketoconazole targets Malassezia yeast overgrowth that contributes to seborrheic dermatitis, reducing scalp flaking and associated inflammation.

What is the mechanism of action of salicylic acid in dermatologic products?

Answer: Keratolytic — softens and removes excess keratin

Salicylic acid is a keratolytic beta-hydroxy acid that dissolves intercellular cement between skin cells, promoting shedding of dead skin and clearing clogged pores.

Which antibiotic class used in dermatology requires patients to use sunscreen due to photosensitivity?

Answer: Oral tetracyclines (doxycycline, minocycline)

Oral tetracyclines cause photosensitivity reactions, requiring patients to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen and minimize direct sun exposure during treatment.