Which of the following terms is used to describe plaque build up in the blood vessels?

A. A mole that is smaller than 6 mm is incorrect because while size can be a factor in melanoma, smaller moles are generally less concerning. Melanomas are often larger than 6 mm, but early lesions can be smaller, so size alone is not the most alarming sign.

B. A mole that resembles all other moles on the body is incorrect because this represents the “E” or “evolution” principle in dermatology, meaning moles that are similar to surrounding moles are less likely to be malignant. Melanoma often stands out as different from other moles (the “ugly duckling” sign).

C. A mole with multiple colors is correct because the “C” in the ABCD mnemonic stands for Color. A mole with multiple shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue is concerning for melanoma. Variation in color reflects abnormal melanocyte activity and irregular pigment deposition, which is a hallmark of malignant change.

D. A mole with symmetrical borders is incorrect because symmetrical moles are generally less concerning. The “B” in ABCD stands for Border, and irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined borders are a warning sign of melanoma. Symmetry is more characteristic of benign nevi.

A. Increased venous pressure causing edema in the legs is incorrect because edema and venous congestion are associated with venous insufficiency, not intermittent claudication. Intermittent claudication is an arterial problem, not a venous one.

B. Decreased blood flow in leg muscles due to atherosclerosis is correct because atherosclerotic plaques narrow the arteries, reducing oxygen-rich blood flow to the muscles during activity. When the leg muscles require more oxygen during exercise or walking, the insufficient blood supply leads to ischemia, causing pain, cramping, or fatigue. This pain typically resolves with rest, which is why it is called intermittent claudication.

C. Increased cardiac output leading to muscle fatigue is incorrect because the pain is not due to cardiac output. While heart function affects overall perfusion, intermittent claudication is localized ischemic pain in the leg muscles caused by arterial obstruction, not by the heart pumping more blood.

D. Decreased stimulation of nerves in the leg muscles is incorrect because the pain results from ischemia, not nerve inactivity. In fact, nerve endings in the muscles may contribute to the sensation of pain due to oxygen deprivation, but the primary cause is reduced arterial blood flow.