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Which of the following diagnostic tests is commonly performed to confirm the diagnosis of psoriasis?

A.

Skin patch testing for allergens

B.

Chest X-ray to assess lung involvement

C.

Complete blood count (CBC) to assess white blood cell count

D.

Skin biopsy to examine histological changes

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Explanation: A skin biopsy is commonly performed to confirm the diagnosis of psoriasis. It involves taking a small sample of skin tissue from a psoriatic plaque and examining it under a microscope to identify the characteristic histological changes, such as hyperkeratosis, parakeratosis, and elongation of the rete ridges.

Incorrect choices: a. Skin patch testing for allergens: Patch testing is used to diagnose allergic contact dermatitis, not psoriasis.

b. Chest X-ray to assess lung involvement: Chest X-rays are not necessary for the diagnosis of psoriasis, as it primarily affects the skin and joints, not the lungs.

c. Complete blood count (CBC) to assess white blood cell count: While a CBC may be performed to assess inflammation, it is not specific to psoriasis and cannot confirm the diagnosis. A skin biopsy is needed for definitive diagnosis.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Explanation: Genetic predisposition in psoriasis contributes to the development of the condition by causing abnormal functioning of the immune system. Certain genes involved in the immune response are associated with psoriasis, leading to an overactive immune system that triggers inflammation and skin cell overproduction.

Incorrect choices: a. Genetic factors increase skin sensitivity to environmental irritants: While some environmental triggers can worsen psoriasis symptoms, genetic predisposition primarily influences the immune system's response, not skin sensitivity to irritants.

b. Genetic factors cause an allergic reaction to certain foods: Psoriasis is not primarily an allergic reaction, and genetic factors do not cause allergic reactions to specific foods in this context.

d. Genetic factors impair the skin's barrier function: Psoriasis is not caused by a skin barrier dysfunction. The condition is characterized by immune system dysregulation and the subsequent inflammation and rapid skin cell turnover.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Explanation: Environmental factors such as stress, trauma, infections, and certain medications are considered triggers that can worsen psoriasis symptoms in individuals who are already genetically predisposed to the condition. These triggers can lead to psoriasis flare-ups or worsen existing plaques.

Incorrect choices: a. Primary cause of psoriasis: Environmental factors are not the primary cause of psoriasis. While they can influence the severity of symptoms, the condition itself is primarily driven by genetic factors and immune system dysfunction.

b. Minor role with no significant impact: Environmental triggers are not minor in psoriasis etiology. They can have a significant impact on symptom severity and recurrence in susceptible individuals.

d. Protective factors against developing psoriasis: Environmental factors are not protective against developing psoriasis. As an autoimmune condition, psoriasis is primarily influenced by genetic predisposition and immune system dysfunction, not by protective environmental factors.

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