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Atopic Eczema — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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HardDermatopharmacologyAtopic EczemaSCE Dermatology

A patient taking abrocitinib for severe atopic dermatitis develops herpes zoster affecting two non-contiguous dermatomes. What is the best immediate action?

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Correct answer: BWithhold abrocitinib and arrange urgent antiviral and specialist assessment

JAK inhibition increases herpes-zoster risk. Multidermatomal disease may disseminate, so withhold treatment, assess urgently and start appropriate systemic antiviral therapy while evaluating immune status and organ involvement. Future vaccination and JAK-inhibitor risk–benefit can be reviewed after recovery; live vaccine is not used during active infection.

Reference: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/abrocitinib/