MCQ Quiz: Dermatology Self Care

Welcome to our MCQ quiz on Dermatology Self-Care, an essential area of knowledge for PharmD students. Many common skin conditions can be effectively managed with self-care strategies and non-prescription products. As future pharmacists, your ability to assess patient symptoms, recommend appropriate self-treatment, identify exclusions for self-care, and provide crucial counseling will greatly impact patient outcomes. This quiz will explore various dermatological conditions amenable to self-care, their treatments, and the evidence-based advice you’ll need to provide. Test your expertise in helping patients achieve healthier skin!

1. Which of the following is a common non-prescription topical ingredient used for the treatment of mild to moderate acne?

• a) Hydrocortisone
• b) Benzoyl peroxide
• c) Miconazole
• d) Salicylic acid (for psoriasis)

Answer: b) Benzoyl peroxide

2. A patient presents with an intensely itchy, erythematous rash with vesicles, primarily on their forearms, after hiking. This is most characteristic of:

• a) Atopic dermatitis
• b) Psoriasis
• c) Allergic contact dermatitis (e.g., poison ivy)
• d) Tinea corporis

Answer: c) Allergic contact dermatitis (e.g., poison ivy)

3. Which of the following is an exclusion for self-treatment of acne?

• a) Mild comedonal acne
• b) Acne with a few inflammatory papules
• c) Moderate to severe acne with nodules or cysts
• d) Acne present for less than 2 weeks

Answer: c) Moderate to severe acne with nodules or cysts

4. What is a key non-pharmacological recommendation for managing dry skin (xerosis)?

• a) Taking long, hot showers daily.
• b) Using harsh, alkaline soaps.
• c) Applying a moisturizer to slightly damp skin after bathing.
• d) Avoiding all types of oils on the skin.

Answer: c) Applying a moisturizer to slightly damp skin after bathing.

5. Which non-prescription ingredient is commonly used to treat fungal skin infections like athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)?

• a) Bacitracin
• b) Clotrimazole
• c) Lidocaine
• d) Zinc oxide

Answer: b) Clotrimazole

6. A patient asks for a product to treat a common wart on their finger. Which active ingredient is a first-line self-care option?

• a) Hydroquinone
• b) Salicylic acid
• c) Pramoxine
• d) Selenium sulfide

Answer: b) Salicylic acid

7. Which of the following is a primary symptom of dandruff?

• a) Thick, adherent, silvery scales on elbows and knees.
• b) Intense itching and burrow marks between fingers.
• c) Flaking and scaling of the scalp, often with mild itching.
• d) Fluid-filled blisters in a dermatomal distribution.

Answer: c) Flaking and scaling of the scalp, often with mild itching.

8. What is the minimum recommended Sun Protection Factor (SPF) for daily use to protect against UV radiation?

• a) SPF 5
• b) SPF 15
• c) SPF 30
• d) SPF 70

Answer: c) SPF 30

9. For a minor, superficial burn (first-degree), what is an appropriate initial self-care step?

• a) Apply ice directly to the burn.
• b) Immerse the affected area in cool (not ice-cold) water.
• c) Immediately apply butter or oil.
• d) Break any blisters that form.

Answer: b) Immerse the affected area in cool (not ice-cold) water.

10. Which non-prescription ingredient is an emollient often used to moisturize and protect dry skin?

• a) Witch hazel
• b) Isopropyl alcohol
• c) Petrolatum
• d) Menthol

Answer: c) Petrolatum

11. Exclusions for self-treatment of fungal skin infections include:

• a) Involvement of the toenails or fingernails.
• b) Infection localized to the feet.
• c) Mild redness and scaling.
• d) Symptoms present for less than a week.

Answer: a) Involvement of the toenails or fingernails.

12. What is the primary mechanism of action of benzoyl peroxide in treating acne?

• a) It is a potent anti-inflammatory agent.
• b) It has antibacterial effects against Cutibacterium acnes and keratolytic properties.
• c) It reduces sebum production directly.
• d) It acts as a topical retinoid.

Answer: b) It has antibacterial effects against Cutibacterium acnes and keratolytic properties.

13. Calamine lotion is primarily used in self-care for its:

• a) Antifungal properties
• b) Skin-protectant and astringent properties to relieve itching
• c) Keratolytic effects
• d) Antibacterial action

Answer: b) Skin-protectant and astringent properties to relieve itching

14. When counseling a patient on the use of topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone 1% for self-care, it is important to advise them to:

• a) Apply it liberally all over the body.
• b) Use it for no more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
• c) Apply it under an occlusive dressing for all conditions.
• d) Expect immediate and permanent clearing of the rash.

Answer: b) Use it for no more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.

15. A common trigger for irritant contact dermatitis is:

• a) Poison ivy resin
• b) Frequent hand washing with harsh soaps
• c) Nickel in jewelry
• d) Latex gloves in sensitized individuals

Answer: b) Frequent hand washing with harsh soaps

16. Which type of UV radiation is primarily responsible for sunburn and is a major cause of skin cancer?

• a) UVA
• b) UVB
• c) UVC
• d) Infrared radiation

Answer: b) UVB

17. A patient describes a well-demarcated, erythematous plaque with thick, silvery scales on their elbow. This presentation is most consistent with:

• a) Eczema
• b) Psoriasis
• c) Ringworm
• d) Scabies

Answer: b) Psoriasis

18. Self-treatment for psoriasis is generally limited to:

• a) Severe, widespread psoriasis.
• b) Psoriasis with joint involvement.
• c) Very mild cases affecting a small body surface area.
• d) Pustular psoriasis.

Answer: c) Very mild cases affecting a small body surface area.

19. Which of the following is a non-pharmacological measure to prevent diaper rash?

• a) Keeping diapers on for extended periods.
• b) Using plastic pants over diapers.
• c) Frequent diaper changes and gentle cleansing of the area.
• d) Applying talcum powder liberally.

Answer: c) Frequent diaper changes and gentle cleansing of the area.

20. A common counseling point for topical antifungal agents used for tinea infections is to:

• a) Stop treatment as soon as itching subsides.
• b) Continue treatment for the recommended duration (e.g., 1-2 weeks after symptoms clear) to prevent recurrence.
• c) Apply the product only once.
• d) Share the medication with family members who have similar symptoms.

Answer: b) Continue treatment for the recommended duration (e.g., 1-2 weeks after symptoms clear) to prevent recurrence.

21. An example of a physical sunscreen ingredient is:

• a) Oxybenzone
• b) Avobenzone
• c) Zinc oxide
• d) Octinoxate

Answer: c) Zinc oxide

22. For a patient experiencing mild itching from an insect bite, a suitable non-prescription topical ingredient would be:

• a) Neomycin
• b) Pramoxine or hydrocortisone
• c) Mupirocin
• d) Ketoconazole

Answer: b) Pramoxine or hydrocortisone

23. Which of the following is generally NOT an exclusion for self-treatment of minor wounds?

• a) A wound containing foreign matter after irrigation.
• b) A superficial abrasion on the knee.
• c) A bite wound (animal or human).
• d) Signs of infection like pus or spreading redness.

Answer: b) A superficial abrasion on theknee.

24. The “ABCDEs” of melanoma detection refer to:

• a) Antiseptic, Bandage, Clean, Dry, Elevate
• b) Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variegation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving
• c) Acne, Blisters, Comedones, Dermatitis, Erythema
• d) Allergy, Burn, Cut, Dermis, Epidermis

Answer: b) Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variegation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving

25. Coal tar is a non-prescription ingredient sometimes used in self-care for:

• a) Acne
• b) Psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis
• c) Fungal infections
• d) Bacterial skin infections

Answer: b) Psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis

26. When recommending a sunscreen, it is important to advise patients to apply it:

• a) Only when they plan to swim.
• b) Sparingly to avoid a greasy feel.
• c) Liberally and evenly 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply frequently.
• d) Only on cloudy days.

Answer: c) Liberally and evenly 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply frequently.

27. Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is often characterized by:

• a) Well-defined silvery plaques.
• b) Greasy yellow scales in hair-bearing areas.
• c) Dry, itchy, inflamed skin, often in flexural areas.
• d) Pustules and comedones on the face.

Answer: c) Dry, itchy, inflamed skin, often in flexural areas.

28. What is a key counseling point for patients starting topical salicylic acid for common warts?

• a) Results are usually seen within 1-2 days.
• b) It may take several weeks of consistent application for the wart to resolve.
• c) The product should be applied to surrounding healthy skin as well.
• d) It is safe to use on genital warts.

Answer: b) It may take several weeks of consistent application for the wart to resolve.

29. Which of these ingredients is a common humectant found in moisturizers, helping to draw water into the skin?

• a) Dimethicone
• b) Lanolin
• c) Glycerin
• d) Mineral oil

Answer: c) Glycerin

30. A “broad-spectrum” sunscreen protects against:

• a) Only UVA rays
• b) Only UVB rays
• c) Both UVA and UVB rays
• d) Only UVC rays

Answer: c) Both UVA and UVB rays

31. An exclusion for self-treatment of insect bites and stings is:

• a) Mild localized itching and redness.
• b) A history of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to stings.
• c) A single mosquito bite.
• d) The patient being an adult.

Answer: b) A history of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to stings.

32. Seborrheic dermatitis commonly affects which areas of the body?

• a) Palms and soles only.
• b) Scalp, face (eyebrows, nose creases), and chest.
• c) Shins and ankles.
• d) Only areas covered by clothing.

Answer: b) Scalp, face (eyebrows, nose creases), and chest.

33. Topical antibiotics available non-prescription (e.g., Neosporin) are primarily indicated for:

• a) Preventing infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.
• b) Treating severe cellulitis.
• c) Treating fungal infections.
• d) Reducing inflammation in eczema.

Answer: a) Preventing infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.

34. A key difference between irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is that:

• a) ICD always involves an immune response, while ACD does not.
• b) ACD involves a prior sensitization and an immune response, while ICD is a direct tissue injury.
• c) ICD is always more severe than ACD.
• d) ACD appears immediately upon first exposure to the substance.

Answer: b) ACD involves a prior sensitization and an immune response, while ICD is a direct tissue injury.

35. What is the best advice for a patient who has just been exposed to poison ivy?

• a) Vigorously scrub the area with hot water and soap immediately.
• b) Wash the affected area gently with soap and cool water as soon as possible.
• c) Apply a thick layer of petrolatum to seal in the urushiol.
• d) Do nothing, as washing can spread the rash.

Answer: b) Wash the affected area gently with soap and cool water as soon as possible.

36. Ketoconazole shampoo is a non-prescription treatment option for:

• a) Common warts
• b) Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis
• c) Acne
• d) Bacterial folliculitis

Answer: b) Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis

37. Sunscreen reapplication is generally recommended every:

• a) 6 hours
• b) 2 hours, or more often after swimming or sweating
• c) 24 hours
• d) Once daily is sufficient for all products

Answer: b) 2 hours, or more often after swimming or sweating

38. The primary goal of self-treatment for atopic dermatitis (eczema) is to:

• a) Cure the condition permanently.
• b) Reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and hydrate the skin.
• c) Thin the skin to prevent future flares.
• d) Only use potent topical steroids.

Answer: b) Reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and hydrate the skin.

39. Which skin protectant is commonly found in diaper rash products?

• a) Benzocaine
• b) Zinc oxide or petrolatum
• c) Neomycin
• d) Hydrocortisone

Answer: b) Zinc oxide or petrolatum

40. A patient is concerned about “age spots” (solar lentigines). While this requires physician diagnosis, what is the most important preventive measure for such sun-induced skin changes?

• a) Regular use of tanning beds.
• b) Consistent sun protection, including sunscreen.
• c) Daily application of topical antibiotics.
• d) High-dose vitamin C supplementation.

Answer: b) Consistent sun protection, including sunscreen.

41. If a patient using a topical acne product experiences excessive dryness or irritation, what should they be advised to do?

• a) Increase the frequency of application.
• b) Apply a thicker layer of the product.
• c) Reduce the frequency of application or use a milder product, and use a moisturizer.
• d) Stop all skincare immediately.

Answer: c) Reduce the frequency of application or use a milder product, and use a moisturizer.

42. For self-care of tinea cruris (jock itch), patients should be advised to:

• a) Wear tight, synthetic underwear.
• b) Keep the affected area moist to promote healing.
• c) Keep the affected area clean and dry, and apply an antifungal.
• d) Share towels with others to prevent spread.

Answer: c) Keep the affected area clean and dry, and apply an antifungal.

43. Which of these is a keratolytic agent, often used for conditions involving excessive skin scaling or thickness?

• a) Dimethicone
• b) Salicylic acid or urea
• c) Glycerin
• d) Calamine

Answer: b) Salicylic acid or urea

44. A patient reports a small, itchy, red bump after being outdoors, likely an insect bite. Which symptom would be an exclusion for self-treatment and warrant medical referral?

• a) Mild swelling at the bite site.
• b) Itching that lasts for a day.
• c) Signs of a systemic reaction like difficulty breathing or widespread hives.
• d) The bite occurring on the arm.

Answer: c) Signs of a systemic reaction like difficulty breathing or widespread hives.

45. When advising on the treatment of dandruff, which type of shampoo ingredient helps to reduce scalp cell turnover rate?

• a) Emollients
• b) Pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, or coal tar
• c) Moisturizers
• d) Antibacterials like triclosan

Answer: b) Pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, or coal tar

46. Patients using photosensitizing medications should be counseled to:

• a) Increase their sun exposure to build tolerance.
• b) Be especially diligent with sun protection measures.
• c) Discontinue their photosensitizing medication before going outdoors.
• d) Use only physical sunscreens, as chemical sunscreens are ineffective.

Answer: b) Be especially diligent with sun protection measures.

47. The most common symptom prompting patients to seek self-care for many dermatological conditions is:

• a) Bleeding
• b) Itching (pruritus)
• c) Numbness
• d) Fever

Answer: b) Itching (pruritus)

48. A key educational point for any topical dermatological product is:

• a) More is always better; apply thickly.
• b) Apply to broken or open skin for better absorption.
• c) Proper application technique (e.g., thin layer, wash hands before/after).
• d) Expect results within one hour for all conditions.

Answer: c) Proper application technique (e.g., thin layer, wash hands before/after).

49. If a self-treated dermatological condition does not improve or worsens after a reasonable period (typically 7 days for many conditions), the patient should be advised to:

• a) Double the dose of the non-prescription product.
• b) Try a different non-prescription product from another category.
• c) Consult a healthcare provider.
• d) Assume the condition is untreatable.

Answer: c) Consult a healthcare provider.

50. The overall goal of the pharmacist in dermatology self-care is to:

• a) Diagnose complex skin diseases.
• b) Ensure patients select and use appropriate non-prescription products safely and effectively, and to refer when necessary.
• c) Only recommend the most expensive products.
• d) Discourage patients from seeing a dermatologist.

Answer: b) Ensure patients select and use appropriate non-prescription products safely and effectively, and to refer when necessary.