National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Medical Assistant Practice Test

In which condition would hydrocortisone not be indicated for treatment?

1. Severe allergic reaction

2. Acute inflammation

3. Infectious disease

4. Asthma exacerbation

The correct answer is: Infectious disease

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that is often used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response in various medical scenarios. However, it is not indicated in the treatment of infectious diseases because corticosteroids can suppress the body’s immune response, potentially worsening the infection or prolonging its duration. In the case of an active infectious disease, using hydrocortisone could further undermine the body’s ability to fight the infection. In contrast, hydrocortisone is commonly used in severe allergic reactions to manage swelling and inflammation. It also plays a role in treating acute inflammation, where its anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate symptoms. It is also frequently administered during asthma exacerbations to reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing. Therefore, the use of hydrocortisone is appropriate in the former scenarios but not in the context of active infections, making this the correct choice.