Appropriate treatment of Rosacea

A 72-year-old man presents to your office complaining of an area of redness associated with the perinasal region. He states that the rash is often worse in the summer, and he has noticed that sunlight exposure makes it worse. Appropriate treatment of this condition consists of

• A) hydrocortisone cream
• B) tretinoin gel
• C) metronidazole cream
• D) mupirocin ointment
• E) acyclovir ointment

The answer is: ( C ). (Rosacea)
Rosacea is a common problem encountered by family physicians. The condition is associated with areas of erythema and telangiectasia on the face. It is exacerbated by sunlight, hot or spicy foods, and alcohol. Pronounced rosacea may appear as acneiform papules, pustules, or ruddiness.
Northern Europeans and those of Celtic descent are most commonly affected. Treatment involves oral tetracycline or doxycycline. Topical metronidazole is also effective for milder cases.