Lecture 3: Pharmacology in Dermatology

Question 1

Factors affecting topical absorption

Answer 1

Base/vehicle 
Concentration
Chemical properties of drug
Skin site
Temperature
Occlusion
Thickness 
Hydration of stratum corneum

Question 2

Types of vehicle

Answer 2

Solution
Cream
Paste
Spray powder
Shampoo
Ointment
Foams
Tape 
Gel
Paint
Lotion

Question 3

Drug used topically

Answer 3

Corticosteroids
Antibiotics
Antiviral
Dithranol
Chemotherapy
Parasitidals
Coal Tar
Anti inflammatory drugs
Salicylic acid

Question 4

Side effects of topical steroids

Answer 4

Thinning
Stria
Bruising
Hirsutism
Telangiectasia
Steroid induced rosacea

Question 5

Types of systemic treatments in dermatology

Answer 5

Retinoids:

• Vitamin A analogues that normalise keratin function- highly teratogenic & cause dry skin/lips

Used in:

• Acne
• Psoriasis
• Cutaneous T-Cell lymphoma
• Hand eczema

Traditional immunosuppressants
e.g. MFF

Biologics (immunosuppressive)
- Target different inflammatory pathways