Dermatologist Certificate MCQ Flashcards

Which of the following treatments for acne would be recommended?

Answer: Accutane

Accutane (isotretinoin) is a powerful prescription medication commonly recommended by dermatologists for severe, recalcitrant nodular acne that has not responded to other treatments. It works by significantly reducing the size and activity of sebaceous glands, thereby decreasing oil production and preventing clogged pores. The other options are not treatments for acne.

What is the term for a lack of colour in the skin?

Answer: albinism

Albinism is a congenital condition characterized by a complete or partial absence of pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. This lack of melanin, the pigment responsible for color, results in very pale skin, white hair, and often light-colored eyes. It is a genetic disorder affecting melanin production pathways.

Death of tissue resulting from a reduction in blood flow to the affected area is referred to as?

Answer: gangrene

Gangrene is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a significant amount of body tissue dies. This tissue death results from a severe lack of blood supply to the affected area, often caused by injury, infection, or underlying conditions that impair circulation. The reduced blood flow deprives the tissue of essential oxygen and nutrients, leading to its necrosis.

A severe outbreak of extremely itchy papules or wheals is referred to as?

Answer: urticaria

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is characterized by a severe outbreak of extremely itchy, raised, red, or skin-colored welts (wheals) or papules on the skin. These lesions can appear suddenly and often disappear within hours, only to reappear elsewhere. It is typically an allergic reaction or a response to various triggers.

What are moles that have the potential to turn into malignant melanoma?

Answer: dysplastic nevi

Dysplastic nevi are atypical moles that have irregular borders, varied color, and are often larger than common moles. While most dysplastic nevi do not become melanoma, they are considered precursors to malignant melanoma and indicate an increased risk for developing this serious skin cancer. Regular monitoring by a dermatologist is crucial for individuals with these moles.

What kind of cyst typically develops on the vulva, scrotum, and scalp and includes yellowish sebum?

Answer: sebaceous cyst

A sebaceous cyst, also known as an epidermoid cyst, is a common non-cancerous cyst that arises from a blocked sebaceous gland or hair follicle. These cysts typically contain a yellowish, cheesy, or oily substance (sebum) and are frequently found on areas with many sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, face, neck, back, and sometimes the vulva or scrotum.

What is the term for excessive facial or body hair, especially in women?

Answer: hirsutism

Hirsutism is a medical condition characterized by excessive growth of coarse, dark hair in a male-like pattern (e.g., on the face, chest, back) in women. It is typically caused by an excess of androgens (male hormones) or increased sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens. This differs from general hypertrichosis, which is excessive hair growth anywhere on the body.

The white, half-moon-shaped region at the end of a fingernail is referred to as the?

Answer: lunula

The lunula is the visible, white, half-moon-shaped area at the base of the fingernail or toenail. It is the visible part of the nail matrix, where new nail cells are produced. Its white appearance is due to the thickness of the nail matrix obscuring the blood vessels underneath.

A virus-induced epidermal growth is referred to as a?

Answer: verruca

A verruca, commonly known as a wart, is a small, rough growth on the skin or mucous membrane caused by a viral infection, specifically by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These growths are benign and can appear anywhere on the body, varying in size and shape depending on the type of HPV and location.

What does yellowing of the skin indicate?

Answer: hyperbilirubinemia

Yellowing of the skin, known as jaundice, is a clinical sign of hyperbilirubinemia, which is an excess of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. Elevated levels can indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or excessive red blood cell destruction.

What is the name of a chronic dermatitis in people with a history of allergies that has no recognized cause?

Answer: atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, intensely itchy, and inflamed skin. It often begins in childhood and is strongly associated with a personal or family history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever, forming part of the 'atopic triad.' While its exact cause is unknown, it involves a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors.