Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

A rash described as having an eruption pattern resembling a Christmas tree is most likely what condition?

1. Psoriasis

2. Pityriasis rosea

3. Atopic eczema

4. Tinea versicolor

The correct answer is: Pityriasis rosea

The description of a rash that has an eruption pattern resembling a Christmas tree most commonly refers to pityriasis rosea. This condition is characterized by a distinctive initial "herald patch," which is followed by smaller lesions that tend to arrange themselves in a pattern that spreads outward in a manner resembling the branches of a Christmas tree. This unique presentation, along with the scaling and oval shape of the lesions, is a hallmark of pityriasis rosea. In pityriasis rosea, the lesions often become more prominent along the skin's lines of cleavage, contributing to the tree-like appearance. The condition typically occurs in a younger population and is believed to potentially be triggered by viral infections. Other conditions mentioned may have distinct patterns or features but do not present with the specific Christmas tree-like configuration. For example, psoriasis manifests as well-defined plaques that can be scaly and arise over various body areas, but they do not have the same branching pattern. Atopic eczema usually presents more in a generalized, itchy, red, and inflamed pattern rather than a branched arrangement. Lastly, tinea versicolor is typically characterized by changes in pigmentation rather than eruptions, and it does not fit the description of a Christmas tree pattern. This makes the association with