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Last-2-Weeks Dermatology Strategy (MRCP Part 1)

TL;DR


The last-2-weeks strategy for dermatology (mrcp part 1) should prioritise pattern recognition, classic associations, and daily question practice rather than new reading. Dermatology is a compact, high-yield area in MRCP Part 1 where avoiding common traps can quickly convert into marks. This guide outlines what to revise, what to skip, and how to structure the final fortnight efficiently.


Why this matters

In MRCP Part 1, dermatology is frequently underestimated. Many candidates assume it is “just images” or something they can revise in a day. In reality, the exam tests whether you can integrate morphology, immunology, infection, pharmacology, and systemic disease.

The last two weeks are not for broad coverage. They are for consolidation, recall, and exam-style thinking. A focused approach to dermatology during this period can deliver a disproportionate return on time invested.

If you are revising multiple subjects in parallel, keep dermatology anchored within the wider MRCP Part 1 overview rather than treating it in isolation.


What dermatology questions in MRCP Part 1 actually test


Dermatology questions typically fall into three formats:

  • Visual pattern recognition (or vivid written descriptions)

  • Disease–drug–systemic associations

  • Mechanism-based reasoning rather than stepwise management

The exam does not expect specialist-level dermatology. It expects you to recognise common conditions quickly and avoid predictable diagnostic errors.


The 5 most tested dermatology subtopics (final-fortnight focus)

1. Inflammatory dermatoses

High-frequency conditions include psoriasis, eczema, and lichen planus.

Key discriminators:

  • Psoriasis → extensor surfaces, nail pitting, inflammatory arthritis

  • Eczema → flexural distribution, atopy, weeping lesions

  • Lichen planus → purple, polygonal, pruritic papules, Wickham striae

If nails or joints are mentioned, psoriasis should move up your differential.

2. Drug eruptions and severe reactions

Dermatology is often used to test pharmacology safely.

You should instantly recognise:

  • Stevens–Johnson syndrome / toxic epidermal necrolysis (mucosal involvement, epidermal loss)

  • Fixed drug eruption (recurs at the same site)

  • DRESS syndrome (rash, eosinophilia, systemic features)

Common culprit drugs include anticonvulsants, sulfonamides, and allopurinol.

3. Infective dermatology

Patterns are distinctive and therefore heavily tested.

Revise:

  • Herpes zoster → dermatomal, painful, immunosuppressed patients

  • Impetigo → honey-coloured crusts, usually staphylococcal

  • Scabies → intense nocturnal pruritus, web spaces

A classic MRCP Part 1 trap is steroid-modified fungal infection (tinea incognito).

4. Bullous disorders

Usually tested conceptually rather than in depth.

Key contrasts:

  • Pemphigus vulgaris → flaccid bullae, mucosal involvement, intraepidermal

  • Bullous pemphigoid → tense bullae, elderly patients, subepidermal

A positive Nikolsky sign should prompt careful rereading of the stem.

5. Cutaneous signs of systemic disease

This is traditional MRCP territory.

Common associations:

  • Dermatomyositis → heliotrope rash, Gottron’s papules

  • Acanthosis nigricans → insulin resistance or malignancy

  • Erythema nodosum → sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, inflammatory bowel disease


Ten high-yield dermatology points to revise repeatedly

  1. Psoriasis versus eczema distribution

  2. Diagnostic value of nail changes

  3. Level of blister formation in bullous disease

  4. Fixed drug eruption recurrence pattern

  5. Mucosal involvement in SJS/TEN

  6. Nocturnal pruritus in scabies

  7. Steroid-altered fungal infections

  8. Photosensitive drug rashes

  9. Paraneoplastic skin signs

  10. Vasculitic versus non-vasculitic purpura

These points should be tested using active recall, not rereading.

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A simple 14-day dermatology revision framework

Day

Focus

Task

1–2

Inflammatory dermatoses

Images + MCQs

3

Drug reactions

Classic drugs and patterns

4

Infections

Rapid recognition practice

5

Bullous disease

Mechanisms and clues

6

Systemic signs

Association tables

7

Mock test

Timed, exam conditions

8–10

Weak areas

Targeted revision

11

Image blitz

High-volume image review

12

Second mock

Analyse errors

13

Light revision

Flashcards only

14

Rest

No new material

Daily question practice using Free MRCP MCQs and at least one full attempt via Start a mock test is strongly recommended.


Mini-case (exam-style)

Question A 54-year-old man develops painful oral erosions and flaccid blisters on the trunk. Gentle pressure causes skin peeling. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Pemphigus vulgaris

Explanation: Flaccid bullae, mucosal involvement, and a positive Nikolsky sign indicate an intraepidermal blistering disorder. Bullous pemphigoid typically causes tense bullae and spares mucosa.


Common pitfalls to avoid

  • Confusing itch severity with diagnosis

  • Ignoring recent drug exposure

  • Assuming all bullous disease in older adults is pemphigoid

  • Missing nail changes in long stems

  • Over-analysing rare conditions instead of recognising common patterns


Practical last-two-weeks checklist

  • Revise morphology terminology (macule, papule, plaque, vesicle)

  • Memorise classic drug–rash associations

  • Practise dermatology MCQs daily

  • Maintain a one-page “dermatology traps” list

  • Avoid starting new resources in the final five days

For whole-exam structure, refer to our Study plan for MRCP Part 1.


FAQs

Is dermatology high-yield in MRCP Part 1?

Yes. It is a small syllabus area with predictable patterns, making it efficient for scoring.

How long should I revise dermatology in the last two weeks?

Five to seven focused days spread across the fortnight is usually sufficient.

Are dermatology questions always image-based?

No. Many rely on written descriptions of morphology and distribution.

Should I read dermatology textbooks in the final fortnight?

No. Focus on questions, images, and concise notes instead.


Ready to start?

Dermatology rewards focused revision and disciplined practice. Use this final-fortnight strategy alongside the wider MRCP Part 1 overview to consolidate knowledge and approach the exam with confidence.


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