SPEX Dermatology

Question 1

What is the first-line treatment for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in adults?

Accepted Answer

Topical corticosteroids

Answer

Topical corticosteroids are the first-line treatment for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis, directly reducing skin inflammation and pruritus.

Question 2

Which skin cancer has the highest mortality rate despite representing a smaller percentage of all skin cancer cases?

Accepted Answer

Melanoma

Answer

Melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths due to its high metastatic potential, despite being less common than basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.

Question 3

The characteristic rash of Lyme disease, erythema migrans, is best described as which pattern?

Accepted Answer

Bull's-eye (target) pattern expanding from bite site

Answer

Erythema migrans presents as a bull's-eye or target pattern that expands outward from the tick bite site, representing the hallmark early sign of Lyme disease.

Question 4

Which oral medication for severe acne vulgaris reduces sebum production but is highly teratogenic, requiring the iPLEDGE program?

Accepted Answer

Isotretinoin

Answer

Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a vitamin A derivative that reduces sebum production by shrinking sebaceous glands and is teratogenic, requiring monthly pregnancy tests under the iPLEDGE program.

Question 5

Which histological finding is considered the hallmark of psoriasis?

Accepted Answer

Regular acanthosis with elongated rete ridges and parakeratosis

Answer

Psoriasis is characterized histologically by regular acanthosis, elongation of rete ridges, parakeratosis, and Munro microabscesses due to keratinocyte hyperproliferation.

SPEX Exam Practice Test

SPEX Exam Practice Test

SPEX Dermatology