Warning signs of skin cancer may include: (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

A. Bacterial overgrowth of highly contagious S. aureus with development of vesicles and pruritus is incorrect because this description applies to impetigo, which is a superficial bacterial skin infection. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition and is not contagious, so bacteria are not the primary cause.

B. Abnormal T-cell activation leading to excessive growth of keratinocytes and rapid epidermal shedding is correct because psoriasis is driven by dysregulation of the immune system. In this condition, T-cells become overactive and release cytokines that stimulate keratinocyte proliferation at an accelerated rate. Normally, keratinocytes take about 28–30 days to mature and shed, but in psoriasis, this process can occur in 3–5 days. The rapid turnover results in thickened, scaly plaques, redness, and inflammation. Chronic inflammation also contributes to the pruritus, discomfort, and erythema seen in affected areas. Triggers such as stress, infections, or certain medications may exacerbate the condition but do not cause it directly.

C. Sensitization on first exposure to an allergen with rash development on subsequent exposure is incorrect because this describes allergic contact dermatitis, where the immune system reacts to a previously encountered allergen. Psoriasis, in contrast, is autoimmune and does not require prior allergen exposure. The lesions are caused by internal immune dysregulation, not external sensitization.

D. Latent virus becomes reactivated by infection or stress, leading to development of skin lesions is incorrect because this mechanism describes viral conditions such as shingles (herpes zoster). Psoriasis is not caused by a virus, and the plaques and scales result from keratinocyte hyperproliferation due to immune dysregulation rather than viral reactivation.

A. Elevation of the legs increases pain in those with varicose veins is incorrect because elevating the legs actually relieves discomfort. Elevation reduces venous pressure and improves blood return to the heart, which decreases pain, swelling, and the feeling of heaviness in the legs.

B. The main cause of varicose veins is atherosclerosis is incorrect because varicose veins are primarily caused by venous valve incompetence, leading to venous dilation and blood pooling, not by arterial plaque buildup. Atherosclerosis affects arteries, not veins.

C. Individuals with varicose veins are not likely to develop peripheral edema is incorrect because venous insufficiency can cause fluid to accumulate in the tissues, leading to peripheral edema, particularly in the lower extremities after prolonged standing or at the end of the day.

D. Standing for long periods of time increases the risk of developing varicose veins is correct because prolonged standing or sitting without movement increases venous pressure in the legs, which stresses vein walls and valves. Over time, this can lead to valve dysfunction, vein dilation, and varicose vein formation. Other risk factors include obesity, pregnancy, aging, and family history.