The Ultimate Dermatology Quiz For Aspiring Dermatologists

Pitting of nails is a common symptom of psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches to develop. In some cases, the nails can also be affected, leading to pitting. Pitting refers to the formation of small depressions or dents in the surface of the nails. This occurs due to the abnormal growth of skin cells in the nail matrix, which leads to the formation of pits as the nails grow. Therefore, the correct answer is Psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to multiply rapidly, resulting in red, scaly patches on the skin. This condition can be exacerbated by various factors, including certain medications. Lithium, which is commonly used to treat bipolar disorder, has been known to worsen psoriasis symptoms. B-blockers, a type of medication used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions, can also trigger or worsen psoriasis. Additionally, antimalarial drugs, such as chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, have been associated with psoriasis flare-ups. Therefore, all of the above options (lithium, B-blockers, and antimalarials) can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, scaly patches. Scaling is a key feature of psoriasis, as the excessive growth of skin cells causes the outer layer of the skin to shed rapidly, resulting in the formation of scales. Crusting, oozing, and erythema (redness) may also occur in psoriasis, but scaling is the most prominent and distinguishing feature of the condition.

Photochemotherapy, also known as PUVA therapy, is a treatment used for various skin conditions, including psoriasis. It involves the use of a photosensitizing medication (psoralen) and exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) light. This combination helps to slow down the rapid growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation, which are characteristic features of psoriasis. Therefore, photochemotherapy is an effective treatment option for managing psoriasis symptoms.

Porphyria cutanea tarda is a disorder characterized by a deficiency of the enzyme uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase, leading to the accumulation of porphyrins in the body. When exposed to ultraviolet light, such as the light emitted by a wood's lamp, these porphyrins fluoresce a pinkish red color. This fluorescence is a characteristic feature of porphyria cutanea tarda and helps in its diagnosis.

Calcitriol, a vitamin D analogue, is useful in the treatment of psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin. Calcitriol helps to regulate the growth and development of skin cells, reducing the excessive proliferation and inflammation associated with psoriasis. By promoting normal skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation, calcitriol can effectively manage the symptoms of psoriasis and improve the overall condition of the skin.

The presence of Mees' lines in the nails and raindrop pigmentation in the hands are characteristic findings of arsenic poisoning. Arsenic is a toxic substance that can cause peripheral neuropathy, which can manifest as paraesthesia of the hands and feet. The Mees' lines are horizontal white bands across the nails, and raindrop pigmentation refers to brownish-black discoloration of the skin on the hands. Lead, thallium, mercury, and carbon monoxide can also cause neurological symptoms, but they do not typically present with Mees' lines and raindrop pigmentation.

The least common site involvement in psoriasis is CNS involvement. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that primarily affects the skin, scalp, and nails. It is characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. While psoriasis can affect various parts of the body, including the joints (arthritis), the involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) is extremely rare. CNS involvement in psoriasis may occur in severe cases, but it is not a common manifestation of the disease.

A patient presenting with an itchy annular plaque on the face may be experiencing a fungal infection, such as ringworm. A potassium hydroxide mount is a diagnostic test commonly used to identify fungal infections by examining skin scrapings under a microscope. This test can help confirm the presence of fungal elements, such as hyphae or spores, which would indicate a fungal infection as the cause of the patient's symptoms. Gram's stain, tissue smear, and Wood's lamp examination are not typically used for diagnosing fungal infections and would be less likely to provide useful information in this case.

Woods light is used in various medical examinations. It can be used to examine urine in patients with phorphyria, as certain substances in the urine can fluoresce under the light. It is also used to examine hair in cases of T. capitis, a fungal infection that can be detected by the presence of fluorescent hairs. Additionally, woods light can be used to diagnose sclerema, a skin condition that causes hardening and thickening of the skin. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above."

Contact dermatitis is a type IV hypersensitivity reaction. Type IV hypersensitivity is also known as delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) and is mediated by T cells. In contact dermatitis, the immune response is triggered by direct contact with an allergen or irritant, leading to a delayed inflammatory response. This type of hypersensitivity is characterized by the recruitment of T cells and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, resulting in skin inflammation and the development of a rash.

Lichen planus is pruritic because it is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy, purplish, flat-topped bumps on the skin. The itching can be intense and can cause discomfort to the affected individual. Psoriasis is also pruritic, but it is not the correct answer in this case. Ichthyosis is a group of genetic skin disorders that cause dry, scaly skin, but it is not typically associated with itching. Secondary syphilis can cause a rash, but it is usually not pruritic. Therefore, the correct answer is Lichen planus.

Tinea unguium is a fungal infection that affects the nail plate. The nail plate is the hard, protective covering of the nail that is made up of keratin. When a person has tinea unguium, the fungus invades the nail plate, causing it to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. This can lead to nail deformities and discomfort. Treatment usually involves antifungal medications applied topically or taken orally to eliminate the infection and promote the growth of a healthy nail plate.

Erythroderma is a condition characterized by widespread redness and scaling of the skin. It can be caused by various factors, including psoriasis, lichen planus, eczema, and pityriasis rubra pilaris. However, pityriasis versicolor is not a cause of erythroderma. Pityriasis versicolor is a fungal infection that leads to the development of small, discolored patches on the skin, but it does not typically cause widespread redness and scaling. Therefore, it is not considered a cause of erythroderma.

The patient's symptoms of recurrent episodes of flexural eczema, contact urticaria, recurrent skin infections, and severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea upon taking sea foods are consistent with atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is commonly associated with allergies and immune system dysfunction. The patient's symptoms suggest a hypersensitivity reaction to certain foods, which is commonly seen in atopic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis, airborne contact dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, and cow's milk protein allergy do not fully explain the patient's symptoms.

A patch test is used to diagnose air-borne contact dermatitis. This test involves applying small amounts of potential allergens onto the skin and then observing for any allergic reaction. If a person is allergic to any of the substances, they may develop redness, swelling, or itching at the site of application. This helps identify the specific allergen causing the dermatitis. Skin biopsy, prick test, and estimation of serum IgE or IgM levels are not typically used for diagnosing air-borne contact dermatitis.

Koilonychia refers to spoon-shaped nails, which is a symptom commonly associated with iron deficiency anemia, not vitamin B12 deficiency. In vitamin B12 deficiency, other nail changes such as brittle nails or nail ridges may occur, but not koilonychia. Therefore, the statement "Koilonychia in Vit B12 deficiency" is incorrect.

Berloque dermatitis is a type of contact dermatitis that occurs due to exposure to certain substances found in cosmetics. These substances can include fragrances, preservatives, dyes, and other chemicals present in cosmetic products. When these substances come into contact with the skin, they can cause an allergic reaction, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, and inflammation. Therefore, cosmetics can be a common cause of berloque dermatitis.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to the formation of thick, scaly plaques. These plaques are often itchy and can appear on various parts of the body, including the scalp, elbows, and knees.

Kobner's phenomenon is a skin condition characterized by the development of new psoriatic lesions at the sites of skin trauma or injury. This phenomenon is specific to psoriasis and is not seen in urticaria, herpes simplex, or human papilloma virus infection. Therefore, the correct answer is Psoriasis.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed patches of skin. The ante cubital fossa refers to the inner side of the elbow, which is a common site for atopic dermatitis. This area is prone to irritation and scratching, which can worsen the condition. Additionally, the skin in this area is thinner and more sensitive, making it more susceptible to flare-ups of atopic dermatitis. Therefore, the correct answer is the ante cubital fossa.

Methotrexate is the treatment of choice for erythrodermic psoriasis. Erythrodermic psoriasis is a severe form of psoriasis that affects the entire body, causing redness, scaling, and inflammation. Methotrexate is an immunosuppressive medication that helps to reduce the overactive immune response that causes psoriasis. It is effective in managing the symptoms of erythrodermic psoriasis and can help to improve the condition and quality of life for patients. Other treatments such as corticosteroids and coaltar may be used in combination with methotrexate or as alternative options, but methotrexate is the preferred treatment due to its efficacy and safety profile.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. It typically presents as definite pink plaques with clear margins and commonly involves the knees and elbows. In some cases, psoriasis can affect the nails, causing pitting, discoloration, and thickening. However, it is not always associated with nail infection. Therefore, the correct answer is "Always associated with nail infection."

Clinical evaluation is the best method for diagnosing atopic dermatitis because it involves a thorough examination of the patient's skin, medical history, and symptoms. This allows the healthcare provider to assess the characteristic signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis, such as redness, itching, and dry skin. Additionally, clinical evaluation also helps to rule out other possible skin conditions that may have similar symptoms. Patch tests, IgE and IgG levels, and skin biopsies can be helpful in certain cases, but they are not the primary methods used for diagnosing atopic dermatitis.

Civatte bodies are found in Lichen planus. Civatte bodies are characteristic histopathological findings in Lichen planus, which is an inflammatory skin condition. These bodies are formed by degenerated basal cells and are typically found in the upper dermis. They appear as round structures with a clear halo around them. The presence of Civatte bodies helps in distinguishing Lichen planus from other skin conditions such as Psoriasis, Dermatophytosis, and Vitiligo.

Kaposi's varicelliform eruptions, also known as eczema herpeticum, can occur in various conditions including atopic dermatitis, dermatitis herpetiformis, lymphoma, and as a result of infection with the Coxsackie virus. This means that all of the options listed are correct and can be associated with the development of Kaposi's varicelliform eruptions.

Bulkeley membrane is seen in psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches to appear. Bulkeley membrane refers to the accumulation of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, which is a characteristic feature of psoriasis. This membrane is formed by the shedding and buildup of excessive skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, silvery scales. The presence of Bulkeley membrane is a key diagnostic feature of psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. Nail changes, extensor distribution, and squamo-erythematous lesions are all common features of psoriasis. However, arthritis is not typically associated with psoriasis. While some individuals with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis, it is not a common feature of the condition. Therefore, arthritis is the exception among the given options.

Pityriasis Alba is a common skin condition affecting children, presenting with round or oval-shaped, dry, scaly, and hypopigmented patches, particularly on the face. This benign form of eczema tends to resolve on its own. The cause is not fully understood but is associated with mild eczema. It is essential to seek professional diagnosis and guidance from healthcare providers, particularly dermatologists, for accurate identification and appropriate management of skin conditions in children.

The correct answer is Moniliasis, Pemphigus, Lichen planus, and Measles. Compy’s sign is a clinical sign that shows white patches due to degenerated squamous epithelium occurring on the buccal Mucosa  and gums. This sign can be seen in various conditions that affect the oral mucosa, such as:

• Moniliasis: A fungal infection caused by Candida albicans that causes white patches, redness, and soreness in the mouth.


• Pemphigus: An autoimmune disease that causes blisters and erosions in the skin and mucous membranes, including the mouth.


• Lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory disease that causes white lacy patches, redness, and ulcers in the mouth.


• Measles: A viral infection that causes fever, rash, and Koplik’s spots, which are small white spots on the inside of the cheeks.