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Acne vulgaris — ABFM Board MCQ

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EasyDermatologyAcne vulgarisABFM Board

A 16-year-old boy has comedones and inflammatory papules on the forehead and cheeks. He has no nodules or scarring and has tried gentle cleansing alone. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial treatment?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Topical benzoyl peroxide plus topical retinoid

Mild to moderate acne is commonly treated with topical benzoyl peroxide and a topical retinoid.

Reference: American Family Physician clinical reviews and AAFP guidance: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp.html