Pharmacotherapy - Dermatology III

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to atopic dermatitis, dry skin, contact dermatitis (ICD/ACD), and diaper rash, including nonpharmacologic care and OTC treatment options.

Atopic dermatitis self-care exclusions

Criteria that disqualify a patient from self-care: severe symptoms, moderate–severe itching with large body involvement, age <1 year, signs of infection, or involvement of the face or body folds.

Topical hydrocortisone for atopic dermatitis

Corticosteroid for flare management; cream preferred over ointment; used twice daily during flares; discontinue or reduce to 1–2 times weekly during remission; moisturize after stopping.

Oral antihistamines in atopic dermatitis

Not routinely recommended topically; oral antihistamines may be considered for bedtime itch in some cases.

Counterirritants and local anesthetics for atopic dermatitis

Not supported by evidence for benefit in atopic dermatitis management.

Hydrocortisone 0.5%–1% for dry skin

OTC topical corticosteroid; limit use to 1–2 weeks; avoid infected skin.

Ointment as a moisturizer formulation

Ointments are often preferred for dry skin due to occlusion and greater moisturization.

Eucerin basic ingredients

Petrolatum, mineral oil, mineral wax, and wool wax alcohol.

AmLactin ingredient

Ammonium lactate 12% used as a moisturizing/humectant agent.

Nonpharmacologic care for dry skin (general)

Avoid triggers; take short oil-based baths, pat dry, apply moisturizer; use a humidifier; increase fluids.

Moisturizer vehicle: lotion

Oil-in-water emulsion; may be drying but is easy to spread.

Moisturizer vehicle: cream

Oil-in-water emulsion; common moisturizer form.

Moisturizer vehicle: ointment

Water-in-oil emulsion; most effective for barrier restoration.

Moisturizer vehicle: butters

Thick emollients (e.g., shea butter) for intense moisturization.

Moisturizer vehicle: gels

Cooling but drying; typically less moisturizing.

Moisturizer vehicle: oils

Oil-based moisturizers that provide occlusion and lubrication.

Ceramides/pseudoceramides

Lipid components that help restore the skin’s lipid barrier.

Humectants in moisturizers

Glycerin, propylene glycol, urea, and alpha hydroxy acids that attract moisture to the skin.

Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) definition

Inflammatory reaction caused by an irritant.

ICD presentation

Inflamed, red skin with possible small vesicles or papules; itching, stinging, or burning.

ICD nonpharmacologic management

Wash area with water and mild hypoallergenic soap; protect with clothing and gloves to prevent exposure.

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) definition

Inflammatory reaction caused by an allergen; rash may be more widespread.

ACD presentation

Papules, vesicles, and bullae on inflamed or swollen skin; widespread rash.

ACD nonpharmacologic management

Remove offending allergen; consider hyposensitization where appropriate.

ACD pharmacologic management

Hydrocortisone is commonly used; avoid irritants like lidocaine or benzocaine in some patients.

Wet compress with aluminum acetate 5%

Soothes and dries weeping lesions in dermatitis management.

Calamine lotion

Topical soothing agent used to relieve itching in dermatitis.

Colloidal oatmeal bath

Soothing bath preparation used to alleviate itching and irritation.

OTC prevention products for ACD: Zanfel

Binds urushiol after exposure; claims to stop itching quickly (about 30 seconds).

OTC prevention products for ACD: Tecnu Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser

Cleanses after exposure; contains mineral spirits, water, and surfactants; effective up to 8 hours after exposure.

Diaper rash: zinc oxide

Common diaper rash protectant; creates a barrier but can be difficult to remove.

Diaper rash: lanolin

Common sensitizing agent; potential for allergic reactions.

Diaper rash: mineral oil

Used at each diaper change; washed off to prevent buildup.

Diaper rash: cornstarch/talc cautions

Avoid cornstarch and talc due to inhalation risk and health concerns; talc linked to ovarian cancer and not advised on broken skin.

Skin protectants for diaper rash

Provide a protective barrier, lubrication, and moisture absorption; apply liberally at each diaper change.

Nonpharmacologic diaper rash care

Reduce occlusion and contact time with urine/feces; minimize mechanical irritation; protect and allow healing; prevent secondary infection.