Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

A young man with an extremely pruritic rash on his knees and elbows accompanied by nail pitting is most likely suffering from?

1. Eczema

2. Pityriasis rosea

3. Psoriasis

4. Tinea infection

The correct answer is: Psoriasis

The presentation of an extremely pruritic rash located on the knees and elbows, along with nail pitting, is very characteristic of psoriasis. This chronic skin condition is often marked by well-defined, erythematous plaques covered with silvery scales, and the elbows and knees are common areas for outbreaks. The presence of nail pitting adds further specificity, as this finding is frequently associated with psoriasis due to the involvement of the underlying nail matrix. Psoriasis is considered an immune-mediated disease, leading to a faster-than-normal growth cycle of skin cells, resulting in the characteristic buildup of psoriatic plaques. The itching, or pruritus, commonly experienced can be quite intense, prompting patients to scratch, which may exacerbate the condition. Other conditions presented in the choices do not align as closely with the symptomatology described. Eczema typically presents with different features such as dry, inflamed, itchy skin but does not commonly cause nail pitting. Pityriasis rosea has a distinct herald patch and a "Christmas tree" pattern, also lacking the associated nail changes. A tinea infection would usually have a different appearance, like circular, scaly patches with a defined edge, and would not typically cause nail pitting. Thus,