A patient with acne vulgaris has inflamed, tender, and pus-filled lesions on their face. Which term best describes these lesions?

Explanation: Choice d indicates a need for further teaching because acne does not cause excessive production of skin oils; rather, it results from an increase in sebum production, which can clog pores and contribute to acne development.

Incorrect choices: a. "Untreated severe acne can lead to permanent scarring and skin damage." - This statement is correct as untreated severe acne can leave permanent scars and cause skin damage, especially if the lesions are deep and inflamed.

b. "Severe acne can increase the risk of developing skin infections." - This statement is correct as open acne sores can serve as entry points for bacteria, increasing the risk of skin infections.

c. "Untreated acne may cause psychological and emotional distress." - This statement is correct as severe acne can have a significant impact on a person's self-esteem and cause psychological and emotional distress.

Explanation: The primary diagnostic criterion for acne vulgaris is the presence of comedones, which are non-inflammatory lesions that occur when hair follicles become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. Comedones can be either open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads) and are a hallmark of acne vulgaris.

Incorrect choices: b. Appearance of pustules - Pustules are inflammatory lesions seen in acne vulgaris, but they are not the primary diagnostic criterion.

c. Erythematous, raised plaques with silver scales - This description is characteristic of psoriasis, not acne vulgaris. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition.

d. Nodules and cysts on the skin - Nodules and cysts are severe forms of acne vulgaris, but they are not the primary diagnostic criterion. They may develop in later stages of the condition.