Which of the following is/are pharmacologic therapy options for the treatment of contact dermatitis?

A. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are not part of the routine pharmacologic management of contact dermatitis because the condition is an inflammatory skin reaction triggered by exposure to irritants or allergens rather than a primary bacterial infection. They may only be considered if secondary bacterial infection develops due to scratching and skin barrier disruption. B. Topical steroids: Topical corticosteroids are a cornerstone of treatment for contact dermatitis because they reduce cutaneous inflammation by suppressing local immune responses and inflammatory mediator release. These medications decrease erythema, swelling, and pruritus associated with the allergic or irritant reaction. C. Antihistamines: Antihistamines are used to relieve pruritus associated with contact dermatitis. Histamine release contributes to the itching sensation, and antihistamines help reduce this symptom and improve comfort. Sedating antihistamines may also assist with sleep in patients experiencing severe nighttime itching, reducing scratching and preventing further skin irritation. D. B and C: The combination of topical corticosteroids and antihistamines represents standard pharmacologic therapy for contact dermatitis. Corticosteroids directly address the inflammatory skin reaction, while antihistamines reduce itching and discomfort. Together, these medications target both the underlying inflammatory process and the associated pruritic symptoms. E. All of the above: Including antibiotics as routine therapy is not appropriate because contact dermatitis is not caused by bacteria. While antibiotics may occasionally be required if secondary infection occurs from excoriations, they are not part of the primary pharmacologic treatment plan. Including antibiotics with standard therapies does not accurately represent management.