Hydrocortisone is an over-the-counter ointment commonly used to treat eczema. Eczema is a skin condition where a patch of skin becomes irritated and…

Hydrocortisone is an over-the-counter ointment commonly used to treat eczema. Eczema is a skin condition where a patch of skin becomes irritated and inflamed. It is estimated that approximately 15% of Canadians are affected by eczema at some point in their lives. The active ingredient in hydrocortisone cream is the hormone cortisol. 

Which of the following statements describes why hydrocortisone is an effective treatment for eczema?

Select one:

a. Hydrocortisone helps to suppress the skin inflammation by increasing the immune response.

b. Hydrocortisone helps to suppress the skin inflammation by decreasing the immune response.

c. Hydrocortisone helps to fight off the skin infection by decreasing the immune response.

d. Hydrocortisone helps to fight off the skin infection by increasing the immune response.