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Acne Vulgaris — UKMLA MCQ

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EasyDermatologyAcne VulgarisUKMLA

A 30-year-old woman has acne vulgaris with multiple papules and pustules on her face and mild scarring. She has tried topical benzoyl peroxide without improvement. Which step-up therapy is recommended next?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — B. Topical retinoid (e.g., tretinoin) ± topical antibiotic

After failure of topical benzoyl peroxide monotherapy, guidelines recommend adding or switching to a topical retinoid (such as tretinoin) ± topical antibiotic (clindamycin). Oral isotretinoin is usually reserved for more severe or treatment-resistant acne.

Reference: NICE Acne Vulgaris Guideline