SPEX Dermatology 3

Question 1

The phenomenon where skin trauma induces new disease lesions at injury sites in conditions like psoriasis and lichen planus is called:

Accepted Answer

Koebner phenomenon

Answer

The Koebner phenomenon (isomorphic response) describes the appearance of new disease lesions at sites of cutaneous trauma, occurring in psoriasis, lichen planus, vitiligo, and other conditions.

Question 2

Nikolsky's sign, in which the epidermis separates with lateral pressure, is characteristically positive in which blistering disorder?

Accepted Answer

Pemphigus vulgaris

Answer

Nikolsky's sign is positive in pemphigus vulgaris because intraepidermal acantholysis from anti-desmoglein antibodies allows lateral pressure to separate the superficial epidermis from deeper layers.

Question 3

What is the cornerstone of management for Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)?

Accepted Answer

Supportive care in a burn unit or ICU

Answer

The cornerstone of SJS management is supportive care—fluid replacement, wound care, nutritional support, and pain management—ideally in a burn unit due to the extent of epidermal detachment.

Question 4

The malar 'butterfly' rash that spares the nasolabial folds and worsens with sun exposure is most characteristic of which condition?

Accepted Answer

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Answer

The malar butterfly rash of SLE is photosensitive, involves the cheeks and nasal bridge while sparing the nasolabial folds, and is one of the 11 ACR classification criteria for SLE.

Question 5

Seborrheic dermatitis affecting the scalp and face is most closely associated with overgrowth of which organism?

Accepted Answer

Malassezia species

Answer

Seborrheic dermatitis is associated with overgrowth of Malassezia (formerly Pityrosporum) yeasts on sebum-rich areas, which explains the efficacy of antifungal shampoos and topicals.

SPEX Exam Practice Test

SPEX Exam Practice Test

SPEX Dermatology 3