VB
Vikas Bhardwaj
Medical Technologist, AIIMS New Delhi
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
**Core Concept**
The patient's symptoms of vulval pruritus and erythema in the context of diabetes mellitus suggest an adverse reaction to a medication that can cause skin manifestations, particularly in patients with impaired glucose regulation.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The patient's symptoms are likely caused by an antifungal medication, specifically fluconazole, which is known to cause vulvovaginal candidiasis as a side effect. Fluconazole is a triazole antifungal that inhibits the cytochrome P450 enzyme, CYP3A4, which is involved in the metabolism of many drugs. In diabetic patients, the impaired glucose regulation and associated hyperglycemia can lead to increased glucose levels in the vaginal environment, creating an ideal setting for fungal growth.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not provided, so we will move on to the next one.
**Option B:** This option is also not provided.
**Option C:** This option is also not provided.
**Option D:** This option is not provided.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When prescribing antifungal medications, such as fluconazole, to diabetic patients, it is essential to monitor for signs of vulvovaginal candidiasis, and consider adjusting the medication regimen or adding topical antifungal agents to prevent this side effect.
**Correct Answer: A. Fluconazole**