APMLE Dermatology and Nail Disorders

Question 1

Which dermatophyte species is most commonly responsible for tinea pedis (athlete's foot)?

Accepted Answer

Trichophyton rubrum

Answer

Trichophyton rubrum is the most prevalent dermatophyte causing tinea pedis, accounting for approximately 70% of cases.

Question 2

A patient presents with a thickened, yellowed, and brittle toenail that separates from the nail bed. Which condition is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Onychomycosis

Answer

Onychomycosis presents with subungual hyperkeratosis, onycholysis, yellow/brown discoloration, and nail brittleness due to fungal invasion.

Question 3

What is the first-line systemic antifungal treatment for onychomycosis of the toenails?

Accepted Answer

Terbinafine 250 mg daily for 12 weeks

Answer

Terbinafine 250 mg daily for 12 weeks is the preferred systemic treatment for toenail onychomycosis due to superior mycological cure rates.

Question 4

A patient with psoriasis presents with nail pitting, oil-drop discoloration, and onycholysis. Which nail finding is considered pathognomonic for psoriatic nail disease?

Accepted Answer

Nail pitting

Answer

Nail pitting (small ice-pick depressions on the dorsal nail plate) is considered pathognomonic for psoriasis among the common nail changes.

Question 5

Which of the following describes onychogryphosis?

Accepted Answer

Extreme hypertrophy and curvature of the nail resembling a ram's horn

Answer

Onychogryphosis (ram's horn nail) is characterized by extreme thickening and curved deformity of the nail plate, most often affecting the hallux in elderly patients.

APMLE - American Podiatric Medical Licensing Examination Practice Test

APMLE - American Podiatric Medical Licensing Examination Practice Test

APMLE Dermatology and Nail Disorders