Which agent should a 26-year-old woman avoid for psoriasis treatment due to its teratogenic potential?

Acitretin is a retinoid that is effective in treating psoriasis, but it carries significant teratogenic potential. This means that it can cause congenital malformations if taken during pregnancy. It is crucial for women of childbearing age to avoid acitretin unless effective contraception is used, as it can remain in the body for an extended period and affect a fetus.

The importance of avoiding acitretin is particularly critical for a 26-year-old woman who may be of childbearing age, as unintended pregnancies can pose serious risks to the developing fetus if the mother has been taking this medication. The teratogenic effects associated with acitretin emphasize the need for consistent and effective birth control before, during, and after treatment.

In contrast, while methotrexate is also teratogenic and should be avoided in pregnancy, the risks associated with acitretin and its potential long-lasting effects on fetal development make it particularly critical for women planning for or capable of becoming pregnant. Triamcinolone acetonide and infliximab, while they may have their own risks, do not have the same level of teratogenic potential as acitretin. Therefore, acitretin is the agent that should