Physician Assistant Dermatologic System Disorders

Question 1

A 68-year-old farmer has a pearly, translucent papule with rolled borders and telangiectasias on the nose. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Basal cell carcinoma

Answer

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer. It typically appears as a pearly papule with rolled borders and telangiectasias on sun-exposed areas such as the face.

Question 2

Which finding is most characteristic of psoriasis vulgaris?

Accepted Answer

Silvery-scaled erythematous plaques on extensor surfaces

Answer

Psoriasis causes well-demarcated erythematous plaques with silvery scale, typically on the elbows, knees and scalp. The Auspitz sign (pinpoint bleeding when scale is removed) may be present.

Question 3

A 7-year-old has honey-colored crusted lesions around the nose and mouth. What is the most appropriate treatment for limited disease?

Accepted Answer

Topical mupirocin

Answer

This is nonbullous impetigo, caused by Staphylococcus aureus or group A Streptococcus. Limited disease is treated with topical mupirocin or retapamulin.

Question 4

Which feature best distinguishes melanoma from a benign nevus under the ABCDE criteria?

Accepted Answer

Evolution or change over time

Answer

ABCDE stands for Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over 6 mm, and Evolution. Change in a lesion is a key warning sign.

Question 5

A patient develops painful, grouped vesicles on an erythematous base in a unilateral T6 dermatomal distribution. Which is the best treatment?

Accepted Answer

Oral valacyclovir

Answer

This is herpes zoster (shingles). Oral antivirals such as valacyclovir, acyclovir or famciclovir are most effective when started within 72 hours of rash onset.

Physician Assistant Practice Test

Physician Assistant Practice Test

Physician Assistant Dermatologic System Disorders