Cutaneous Infectious Diseases Flashcards

Grouped vesicles on an erythematous base in a dermatomal distribution that does not cross the midline suggests:

Answer: Herpes zoster

Herpes zoster represents reactivation of varicella-zoster virus, producing painful grouped vesicles confined to a single dermatome.

A Tzanck smear showing multinucleated giant cells supports a diagnosis of:

Answer: Herpesvirus infection

Multinucleated giant cells on a Tzanck smear are seen with herpes simplex and varicella-zoster infections.

Umbilicated, dome-shaped, flesh-colored papules in a child are most consistent with:

Answer: Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum, caused by a poxvirus, produces characteristic umbilicated papules containing a central keratotic core.

Which human papillomavirus types are most strongly associated with condyloma acuminatum (genital warts)?

Answer: HPV 6 and 11

HPV types 6 and 11 cause the majority of genital warts and are considered low oncogenic risk.

A patient presents with painful vesicular lesions on the finger following contact with oral secretions. This is termed:

Answer: Herpetic whitlow

Herpetic whitlow is an HSV infection of the finger, common in healthcare workers and children who suck their fingers.

Which antiviral is first-line for acute herpes zoster to reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia?

Answer: Acyclovir or valacyclovir

Early treatment with acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir shortens the course and reduces postherpetic neuralgia risk.

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is most commonly caused by which virus?

Answer: Coxsackievirus A16

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is typically caused by coxsackievirus A16 (an enterovirus), producing oral ulcers and acral vesicles.