Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

What is the primary condition associated with actinic keratosis?

1. Psoriasis

2. Squamous cell carcinoma

3. Atopic dermatitis

4. Contact dermatitis

The correct answer is: Squamous cell carcinoma

The primary condition associated with actinic keratosis is squamous cell carcinoma. Actinic keratosis, often described as a precancerous skin condition, arises from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation primarily from the sun or artificial sources. The lesions typically appear as rough, dry, scaly patches on sun-exposed skin and result from the abnormal growth of keratinocytes, which can progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. This association is particularly significant because individuals with actinic keratosis have a heightened risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, making surveillance and management of actinic keratosis important in preventing skin cancer. Awareness of this progression is crucial in clinical practice, as it guides monitoring and potential interventions for patients with actinic keratosis to mitigate the risk of cancer development. In contrast, the other conditions listed are not related to actinic keratosis in the same way. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition characterized by rapid skin cell turnover, atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition typically related to allergic reactions, and contact dermatitis is a skin reaction to a substance that irritates the skin or causes an allergic reaction. None of these conditions directly stem from UV exposure or have the same precancerous