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Dermatology Drug Cheatsheet for MRCP Part 1

TL;DR

For MRCP Part 1, dermatology questions frequently test the drug of choice for classic conditions. This drug of choice cheatsheet — dermatology focus (MRCP Part 1) summarises the most examinable treatments, escalation steps, and pitfalls. Focus on pattern recognition and first-line therapies. Use this guide for rapid revision before mocks and the exam.


Why this matters

Dermatology in MRCP Part 1 is deceptively high yield. Questions are rarely about obscure diseases—they test whether you can quickly identify:

  • the diagnosis

  • the severity

  • the most appropriate initial treatment

Many candidates lose marks by overthinking or choosing second-line options prematurely. A structured “drug of choice” approach is therefore essential.

If you’re early in prep, start with the MRCP Part 1 overview. Then consolidate with practice from Free MRCP MCQs.


Core sections

1. High-Yield Dermatology Drug of Choice Table

Condition

Drug of Choice

Key Exam Pearl

Acne vulgaris (mild–moderate)

Topical retinoid ± benzoyl peroxide

Never use antibiotics alone

Acne (severe)

Oral isotretinoin

Teratogenic—strict precautions

Psoriasis (mild)

Topical corticosteroids ± calcipotriol

Potency matters

Psoriasis (severe)

Methotrexate

Monitor liver function

Atopic dermatitis

Emollients + topical steroids

Maintenance therapy key

Impetigo

Topical fusidic acid

Oral if widespread

Cellulitis

Flucloxacillin

Covers Staph/Strep

Scabies

Permethrin 5% cream

Treat all contacts

Pemphigus vulgaris

Systemic corticosteroids

Potentially fatal

Bullous pemphigoid

Topical/systemic steroids

Elderly population

Tinea corporis

Topical azoles/terbinafine

Oral if extensive

Herpes zoster

Acyclovir

Start within 72 hours

2. The 5 Most Tested Subtopics

a) Acne Management Ladder

  • Mild → topical retinoid ± benzoyl peroxide

  • Moderate → add oral antibiotics

  • Severe → isotretinoin

Exam insight: MRCP tests escalation logic more than memorisation.

b) Psoriasis Treatment Strategy

  • Mild → topical steroids + vitamin D analogue

  • Moderate–severe → methotrexate

Key point: Methotrexate is the most tested systemic agent.

c) Eczema vs Psoriasis

  • Eczema → flexural, itchy → emollients first

  • Psoriasis → extensor, scaly → steroid + vitamin D

d) Infectious Dermatology

  • Bacterial → flucloxacillin

  • Fungal → terbinafine/azole

  • Viral → acyclovir

e) Blistering Disorders

  • Pemphigus vulgaris → systemic steroids

  • Bullous pemphigoid → topical/systemic steroids

Pearl: Pemphigus is more severe → aggressive treatment.

3. 10 High-Yield One-Liners

  1. Scabies → Permethrin 5%

  2. Rosacea → Topical metronidazole

  3. Seborrhoeic dermatitis → Ketoconazole

  4. Urticaria → Non-sedating antihistamines

  5. Lichen planus → Topical steroids

  6. Melasma → Hydroquinone

  7. Alopecia areata → Intralesional steroids

  8. HSV → Acyclovir

  9. Dermatophyte infection → Terbinafine

  10. Stevens–Johnson syndrome → Stop drug + supportive care


Practical examples / mini-cases

Mini-Case MCQ

A 30-year-old man presents with widespread scaly plaques over extensor surfaces and nail pitting. Topical therapy has failed. What is the most appropriate next treatment?

A. Oral acyclovirB. MethotrexateC. Topical fusidic acidD. Oral flucloxacillinE. Emollients only

Answer: B. Methotrexate

Explanation: This is moderate–severe psoriasis. First-line systemic therapy is methotrexate. MRCP commonly tests escalation beyond topical therapy.


Medical student revising dermatology drug of choice notes for MRCP Part 1 exam

Common pitfalls (5 bullets)

  • Choosing systemic therapy too early in mild disease

  • Forgetting benzoyl peroxide with acne antibiotics

  • Using steroids in fungal infections

  • Not treating close contacts in scabies

  • Missing early antiviral window in herpes zoster


Practical study-tip checklist

  • ✔ Memorise first-line + next step

  • ✔ Focus on pattern recognition

  • ✔ Revise using tables and flashcards

  • ✔ Solve dermatology MCQs from Free MRCP MCQs

  • ✔ Test yourself weekly using a Start a mock test

Exam tip: Dermatology rewards repetition—revise this list multiple times.


FAQs

1. What are the most important dermatology drugs for MRCP Part 1?

Methotrexate (psoriasis), isotretinoin (acne), and permethrin (scabies) are frequently tested. Focus on indications and contraindications.

2. How should I revise dermatology efficiently?

Use tables and rapid recall lists. Combine reading with MCQ practice to reinforce patterns.

3. When is isotretinoin indicated?

In severe or treatment-resistant acne. Always consider teratogenic risks and monitoring.

4. What is the first-line treatment for scabies?

Permethrin 5% cream applied to the whole body, including contacts.

5. Are antibiotics commonly tested in dermatology?

Yes—especially flucloxacillin for cellulitis and avoiding misuse in non-bacterial conditions.


Ready to start?

Dermatology can be a scoring area in MRCP Part 1 if you master drug choices and escalation pathways. Strengthen your preparation with the MRCP Part 1 overview, practise with Free MRCP MCQs, and simulate exam conditions using a Start a mock test.

For deeper coverage, explore related topics like psoriasis and infectious dermatology on our blog.


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