Which topical antifungal agent is appropriate for treating a fungal skin infection in an adolescent with a pruritic rash?

• A. Miconazole
• B. Hydrocortisone
• C. Clotrimazole
• D. Terbinafine

Answer: (C)

Topical antifungals that control fungus on the skin work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, and clotrimazole is a broad-spectrum azole antifungal that fits well for adolescents with a pruritic fungal skin rash. It has good activity against the common dermatophytes that cause tinea corporis and tinea cruris, as well as Candida species, making it a versatile first-line option for superficial fungal infections. It’s generally well tolerated in teens, available without a prescription in suitable strengths, and can be applied safely to affected areas with minimal systemic absorption. Use it twice daily for a full course (usually 2–4 weeks, and longer if needed) even if itching improves earlier, to ensure complete clearance and prevent recurrence. Hydrocortisone would help with itching but does not treat the infection and can even worsen some fungal infections if used alone, which is why it isn’t the antifungal choice here. Other antifungals like miconazole or terbinafine are also effective, but clotrimazole is a classic, safe, and readily accessible option that adequately covers the likely organisms in an adolescent presenting with a pruritic fungal skin rash.