CLT Skin Conditions & Pathology for Light Therapy 2

Question 1

What is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and which clients are most at risk?

Accepted Answer

Excess melanin deposited after skin inflammation, most common in Fitzpatrick Types IV–VI

Answer

PIH occurs when inflammation triggers melanocytes to overproduce melanin, and darker skin types are most susceptible due to more reactive pigment-producing cells.

Question 2

A CLT notices a client has a lesion with irregular borders, multiple colors, and a diameter greater than 6mm on their back. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to a dermatologist immediately before proceeding with any treatment

Answer

The ABCDE criteria (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving) describe features of potential melanoma, requiring urgent dermatology referral before any light therapy.

Question 3

What is the Koebner phenomenon and why is it important for CLT practice?

Accepted Answer

New skin lesions appearing at sites of trauma or injury, relevant when treating psoriasis or vitiligo clients

Answer

The Koebner phenomenon means that trauma—including from treatment equipment contact—can trigger new lesions in clients with psoriasis, vitiligo, or lichen planus.

Question 4

Which inflammatory skin condition is characterized by intense itching, dry skin, and a chronic relapsing course, and may be managed with narrowband UVB light therapy?

Accepted Answer

Atopic dermatitis (eczema)

Answer

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory condition with a strong genetic and immune component, and narrowband UVB phototherapy is an effective second-line therapy for moderate-to-severe cases.

Question 5

Why is it important for a CLT to know whether a client has a history of herpes simplex virus (HSV) before light therapy?

Accepted Answer

Certain light therapies can trigger HSV reactivation (cold sores or genital herpes outbreaks)

Answer

UV and laser light exposure can trigger HSV reactivation in latent carriers, so prophylactic antiviral medication may be needed before certain light therapy procedures.

CLT - Certified Light Therapist Practice Test

CLT - Certified Light Therapist Practice Test

CLT Skin Conditions & Pathology for Light Therapy 2