A 72-year-old woman complains of anal itching and burning. Physical examination reveals an erythematous, scaly lesion, 3 cm in circumference, within the anal canal. The intersphincteric groove can not be appreciated in the area of the lesion. The remainder of the physical examination is normal. Appropriate initial management includes which of the following?
A. Acyclovir 200 mg QID for 10 days
B. Hydrocortisone cream 0.1% topically for 14 days
C. Incisional biopsy
D. Metronidazole 250 mg PO QID for 14 days
Answer:C
A 72-year-old woman complains of anal itching and burning. Physical examination reveals an erythematous, scaly lesion, 3 cm in circumference, within the anal canal. The intersphincteric groove can not be appreciated in the area of the lesion. The remainder of the physical examination is normal. Appropriate initial management includes which of the following?
A. Acyclovir 200 mg QID for 10 days B. Hydrocortisone cream 0.1% topically for 14 days C. Incisional biopsy D. Metronidazole 250 mg PO QID for 14 days