Question

Joan is newly diagnosed with mild psoriasis on her face and neck. She is unemployed and asks for an inexpensive treatment option. What is an appropriate first-line treatment option for Joan?

Select one:
a. Apremilast
b. Calcipotriene
c. Tacrolimus 0.03% ointment
d. Hydrocortisone 1% cream

Answer 1

Hydrocortisone 1% cream, a cost-effective and over-the-counter option, is an appropriate first-line treatment for the symptoms of mild psoriasis.

Step-by-step explanation:

An appropriate first-line treatment option for Joan, who is newly diagnosed with mild psoriasis on her face and neck, would be hydrocortisone 1% cream. Hydrocortisone cream is a topical corticosteroid that can temporarily relieve minor skin irritations, itching, and rashes by reducing the secretion of histamine. Since psoriasis can cause itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales, a treatment like hydrocortisone cream which suppresses the immune system and limits inflammation can be beneficial in managing its symptoms. This treatment is also cost-effective, which is a significant consideration for Joan as she is unemployed.