Skin Tumors Practice Questions

Q: Which of the following cutaneous malignancies does not metastasize through the lymphatics?

Basal cell carcinoma. **Explanation:** **Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)** is the correct answer because it is characterized by **local invasiveness** rather than metastatic potential. While it can be highly destructive to local tissues (earning it the name "Rodent Ulcer"), the rate of metastasis is extremely low (0.0028% to 0.5%). When metastasis does rarely occur, it is usually via the lymphatic route, but for the purposes of NEET-PG, BCC is classically defined as a tumor that "destroys locally but does not spread distantly." **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):** Unlike BCC, SCC has a significant risk of metastasis (approx. 2–5%), primarily through the **lymphatic system** to regional lymph nodes. * **Melanoma:** This is the most aggressive cutaneous malignancy. It spreads early and rapidly via both **lymphatics** (sentinel node involvement is a key prognostic factor) and hematogenous routes. * **Kaposi’s Sarcoma:** This is a vascular neoplasm caused by HHV-8. It frequently involves the **lymphatic channels** and can present with lymphadenopathy and visceral involvement. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **BCC Origin:** Derived from the non-keratinizing cells of the basal layer of the epidermis. * **Most Common Site:** Face (above the line joining the angle of the mouth to the tragus). * **Histopathology:** Look for **"Peripheral Palisading"** of nuclei and retraction artifacts. * **Gold Standard Treatment:** Mohs Micrographic Surgery (highest cure rate). * **Inheritance:** Associated with **Gorlin Syndrome** (PTCH gene mutation).

Q: An HIV-positive patient presents with a characteristic lesion on the leg and a history of HHV-8 infection. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Kaposi sarcoma. **Explanation:** The clinical presentation of an HIV-positive patient with skin lesions and a confirmed **Human Herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8)** infection is the classic diagnostic triad for **Kaposi Sarcoma (KS)**. **Why Kaposi Sarcoma is correct:** Kaposi Sarcoma is a multicentric vascular neoplasm caused by HHV-8 (also known as KSHV). In the context of HIV/AIDS, it is an **AIDS-defining illness**. The virus infects endothelial cells, leading to spindle cell proliferation and neoangiogenesis. Lesions typically present as non-blanching, violaceous (purple) macules, plaques, or nodules, most commonly on the lower extremities, face, or oral mucosa. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **Lymphoma / Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL):** While HIV patients are at a higher risk for NHL (e.g., Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma or Burkitt Lymphoma), these typically present as lymphadenopathy or systemic symptoms rather than characteristic vascular skin lesions associated with HHV-8. * **Malignant Melanoma:** This is a malignancy of melanocytes. While it presents as pigmented skin lesions, it is not etiologically linked to HHV-8 or specifically triggered by the HIV virus. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Histopathology:** Look for "spindle-shaped cells," "slit-like vascular spaces" containing RBCs, and "promontory sign." * **Variants:** There are four types: Classic (elderly Mediterranean men), Endemic (African), Iatrogenic (transplant-related), and Epidemic (AIDS-associated). * **Treatment:** Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) is the first line for AIDS-related KS. Localized lesions can be treated with intralesional vinblastine or cryotherapy. * **Differential Diagnosis:** Bacillary Angiomatosis (caused by *Bartonella henselae*), which also presents with purple nodules in HIV patients but shows neutrophilic infiltrate on biopsy.

Q: Which is considered the most severe form of malignant melanoma?

Nodular infiltrating type. **Explanation:** **Nodular Melanoma (NM)** is considered the most aggressive and severe form of malignant melanoma because it lacks a **radial growth phase**. Unlike other types that spread horizontally along the epidermis first, NM begins with an immediate **vertical growth phase**. This leads to rapid deep dermal invasion (increased Breslow thickness) and early lymphatic or hematogenous metastasis. Clinically, it presents as a rapidly enlarging, darkly pigmented, or amelanotic "berry-like" nodule. **Analysis of Options:** * **A. Superficially spreading:** This is the **most common** type of melanoma overall. It has a prolonged radial growth phase (months to years), making it easier to detect early and providing a better prognosis than the nodular type. * **C. Lower limb:** While the lower limb is a common site for melanoma (especially in females), the anatomical location alone does not determine severity as much as the histological subtype and depth of invasion. * **D. Choroid:** Uveal (choroidal) melanoma is the most common primary intraocular tumor. While serious, it is a localized variant and not the most common or aggressive form when compared to the systemic impact of nodular cutaneous melanoma. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Breslow Thickness:** The most important prognostic factor in melanoma (measures vertical depth in mm). * **ABCDE Criteria:** Used for early detection (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving). * **Lentigo Maligna:** The type with the best prognosis (slowest growth). * **Acral Lentiginous Melanoma:** The most common type in dark-skinned individuals (palms, soles, subungual).

Q: A 50-year-old female presented with ulcerated firm to hard nodules over the covered parts of her body, along with generalized erythema, edema, and extreme pruritus. Initially, they were barely palpable erythematous, well-defined patches, which later converged to plaques and became itchy, ultimately turning into the current lesions. Cervical lymphadenopathy was also noted. Skin biopsy from the lesion was taken, and a peripheral blood smear showed abnormal cells. Which is the most likely diagnosis?

Sezary disease. **Explanation:** The clinical presentation describes the classic progression of **Mycosis Fungoides (MF)**, which has evolved into **Sezary Syndrome (SS)**. The patient’s history follows the characteristic three-stage progression: **Patch stage** (erythematous patches), **Plaque stage** (confluent itchy lesions), and **Tumor stage** (ulcerated firm nodules). The presence of **generalized erythema (erythroderma)**, edema, extreme pruritus, lymphadenopathy, and **abnormal cells in the peripheral blood** (Sezary cells) confirms the diagnosis of Sezary Syndrome. Sezary cells are malignant T-helper cells (CD4+) characterized by a **cerebriform nucleus**. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **Tinea corporis:** Presents as annular (ring-shaped) lesions with central clearing and peripheral scaling; it does not cause generalized erythroderma or peripheral blood abnormalities. * **Psoriasis:** Typically presents with well-demarcated erythematous plaques with silvery-white scales. While it can cause erythroderma, it does not present with ulcerated nodules or malignant cells in the blood. * **Lichen planus:** Characterized by the "6 Ps" (Planar, Purple, Polygonal, Pruritic, Papules, Plaques) and Wickham striae; it does not progress to systemic malignancy or tumor nodules. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Pautrier’s Microabscess:** Pathognomonic histological feature of MF/SS (intraepidermal clusters of malignant T-cells). * **Sezary Cell Criteria:** Diagnosis requires an absolute Sezary cell count of $\ge 1000/mm^3$. * **Immunophenotype:** Typically CD4+ (T-helper cells), leading to a high CD4/CD8 ratio (>10). * **Treatment:** Early stage uses topical steroids/PUVA; advanced stages (SS) require systemic therapy like Extracorporeal Photopheresis (ECP) or Methotrexate.

Q: Which of the following is NOT a criterion for Sézary syndrome?

Absolute Sézary cell count >2000/mm3. **Explanation:** Sézary Syndrome (SS) is the leukemic variant of Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL), characterized by a triad of erythroderma, lymphadenopathy, and circulating malignant T-lymphocytes (Sézary cells). **Why Option D is the correct answer:** The diagnostic criteria for Sézary syndrome were updated by the International Society for Cutaneous Lymphomas (ISCL). The threshold for the **absolute Sézary cell count is ≥1000/mm³**, not 2000/mm³. Therefore, Option D is factually incorrect and is the "except" answer. **Analysis of other options:** * **Option A (Erythroderma):** This is a mandatory clinical criterion. Patients must present with generalized redness involving >80% of the body surface area. * **Option B & C (Sézary cell counts):** While the absolute count (≥1000/mm³) is the gold standard, older or alternative criteria include a Sézary cell count of **>5% in the buffy coat** or **>20% in a peripheral blood smear**. These remain recognized markers of significant blood involvement. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Immunophenotype:** Sézary cells are typically **CD4+ T-cells** with a high **CD4/CD8 ratio (>10)**. They often show a loss of T-cell markers like CD7 and CD26. * **Morphology:** Sézary cells are characterized by a **"cerebriform" nucleus** (brain-like folding). * **Pautrier’s Microabscess:** While more common in Mycosis Fungoides, these are intraepidermal clusters of atypical T-cells. * **Prognosis:** SS has a much poorer prognosis compared to early-stage Mycosis Fungoides.

Q: Which of the following skin conditions is primarily associated with sun exposure?

Actinic keratosis. **Explanation:** **Actinic Keratosis (AK)** is the correct answer because it is a direct result of cumulative ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage to keratinocytes. It is considered a **premalignant lesion** that can progress to Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). Clinically, it presents as rough, sandpaper-like scaly patches on sun-exposed areas (face, scalp, dorsum of hands). Histologically, it shows dysplasia of the basal layers of the epidermis and parakeratosis. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Seborrhoeic Keratosis:** This is a benign proliferation of immature keratinocytes. While common in the elderly, its etiology is related to genetics and aging rather than UV radiation. It classically presents as a "stuck-on," waxy, or greasy papule. * **Sebaceous Cell Carcinoma:** This is a rare, aggressive malignancy of the sebaceous glands, most commonly occurring on the eyelid (Meibomian glands). While UV may play a minor role, it is primarily associated with genetic factors (e.g., Muir-Torre syndrome). * **Syringoma:** These are benign adnexal tumors derived from eccrine sweat ducts. They typically appear as small, skin-colored papules on the lower eyelids and are not related to sun exposure. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Cutaneous Horn:** AK is the most common underlying cause of a cutaneous horn. * **Field Cancerization:** This concept explains why the skin surrounding an AK lesion is also at risk for malignancy due to chronic sun damage. * **Treatment of Choice:** Cryotherapy for individual lesions; **5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)** or Imiquimod for field therapy. * **Histology Sign:** Look for the **"Flag Sign"** (alternating orthokeratosis and parakeratosis).

Q: Which FDA-approved drug is used for the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma?

Imiquimod. **Explanation:** **Imiquimod (Option A)** is the correct answer. It is a topical immune response modifier that acts as a **Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR-7) agonist**. By stimulating the innate immune system, it induces the production of interferon-alpha (IFN-α) and other cytokines, which promote a cell-mediated immune response against tumor cells. The FDA has specifically approved **Imiquimod 5% cream** for the treatment of biopsy-confirmed, primary **superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (sBCC)** in immunocompetent adults when surgical excision is less appropriate. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Acyclovir (Option B):** An antiviral drug used for Herpes Simplex and Varicella-Zoster infections; it has no role in treating skin malignancies. * **Clobetasol (Option C):** An ultra-high potency topical corticosteroid used for inflammatory conditions (e.g., Psoriasis, Lichen Planus). It is contraindicated in skin tumors as it can suppress the local immune response. * **Terbinafine (Option D):** An antifungal agent (allylamine) used to treat dermatophytosis (Tinea infections). **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Other Indications for Imiquimod:** Actinic Keratosis and Anogenital Warts (Condyloma acuminata). * **Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors:** For metastatic or locally advanced BCC (not amenable to surgery/radiation), **Vismodegib** and **Sonidegib** are the drugs of choice. * **Gold Standard Treatment:** Surgical excision with 4mm margins or **Mohs Micrographic Surgery** (highest cure rate, especially for the "H-zone" of the face). * **BCC Characteristics:** Most common skin cancer; "pearly" papule with telangiectasia; rarely metastasizes but is locally invasive ("Rodent ulcer").

Q: Which of the following conditions is related to sunlight exposure?

Actinic keratosis. **Explanation:** **Actinic Keratosis (AK)** is the correct answer because it is a direct result of cumulative damage to keratinocytes by **Ultraviolet (UV) radiation**. The term "actinic" literally means "caused by light." It is considered a **premalignant lesion** (precursor to Squamous Cell Carcinoma) and typically appears as rough, sandpaper-like scaly plaques on sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, and dorsum of the hands. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Molluscum Contagiosum:** This is a viral infection caused by the **Poxvirus**. It presents as umbilicated, pearly papules and is transmitted via direct skin-to-skin contact or fomites, not sunlight. * **Ichthyosis:** This refers to a group of **genetic keratinization disorders** (e.g., Ichthyosis vulgaris) characterized by dry, fish-like scaling. It is hereditary and unrelated to UV exposure. * **Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):** While BCC is indeed strongly associated with sunlight, in the context of standard medical examinations, **Actinic Keratosis** is the "most" classic example of a condition defined by its relationship to light (actinic damage). *Note: If this were a multiple-select question, BCC would be correct, but AK is the primary dermatosis specifically named for its solar etiology.* **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Histology of AK:** Look for "flag sign" (alternating orthokeratosis and parakeratosis) and cellular atypia in the basal layer of the epidermis. * **Treatment of choice:** Cryotherapy (for single lesions) or Topical **5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)** / Imiquimod (for field cancerization). * **Cutaneous Horn:** AK is the most common underlying cause of a cutaneous horn. * **Risk of Malignancy:** Approximately 0.1% to 10% of AK lesions progress to Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC).

Q: A 22-year-old patient presents with multiple neural tumors, pigmented iris hamartomas, and numerous tan macules on his skin. His father, paternal uncle, and paternal grandfather had a similar condition. This patient likely suffers from which of the following?

Neurofibromatosis type I. **Explanation:** The clinical presentation of multiple neural tumors (neurofibromas), pigmented iris hamartomas (**Lisch nodules**), and tan macules (**Café-au-lait spots**) is pathognomonic for **Neurofibromatosis Type I (NF1)**, also known as von Recklinghausen disease. The family history (father, uncle, grandfather) confirms an **Autosomal Dominant** inheritance pattern with high penetrance. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **Ependymoma:** While associated with Neurofibromatosis Type II (NF2), it is not a primary feature of NF1. NF2 is characterized by bilateral acoustic neuromas and lacks Lisch nodules. * **Huntington disease:** An autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder characterized by chorea and cognitive decline, not cutaneous or ocular tumors. * **Marfan syndrome:** A connective tissue disorder (FBN1 mutation) presenting with skeletal abnormalities, ectopia lentis, and aortic root dilation, without neural tumors. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Genetics:** NF1 gene is located on **Chromosome 17** (17 letters in Neurofibromatosis); it encodes **Neurofibromin**, a negative regulator of the RAS pathway. * **Diagnostic Criteria (NIH):** Requires 2 or more of: 1. ≥6 Café-au-lait spots (>5mm prepubertal, >15mm postpubertal). 2. ≥2 Neurofibromas or 1 Plexiform neurofibroma. 3. Axillary or inguinal freckling (**Crowe sign**). 4. Optic pathway glioma. 5. ≥2 Lisch nodules (slit-lamp exam). 6. Distinctive osseous lesions (e.g., sphenoid dysplasia). 7. First-degree relative with NF1. * **Associated Malignancy:** Increased risk of Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors (MPNST) and Pheochromocytoma.

Q: All of the following are premalignant lesions except?

Salmon patch. **Explanation:** The correct answer is **Salmon patch** because it is a benign vascular malformation, not a premalignant lesion. **1. Why Salmon Patch is the Correct Answer:** A Salmon patch (also known as *nevus simplex* or "stork bite/angel kiss") is a common capillary malformation seen in newborns. It is characterized by pink or red patches, typically on the nape of the neck, eyelids, or forehead. These are entirely benign, do not undergo malignant transformation, and usually fade spontaneously within the first few years of life. **2. Analysis of Incorrect Options (Premalignant Lesions):** * **Extramammary Paget's Disease (EMPD):** This is a rare intraepidermal adenocarcinoma. It is considered a premalignant condition because it is frequently associated with an underlying internal malignancy (e.g., adnexal, colorectal, or bladder cancer) or can progress to invasive squamous cell carcinoma. * **Giant Congenital Pigmented Naevus:** These are large melanocytic nevi present at birth. They carry a significant lifetime risk (approximately 5–10%) of developing into **Malignant Melanoma**, necessitating close monitoring or prophylactic excision. * **Dysplastic Naevus:** Also known as atypical moles, these are histologically distinct melanocytic nevi. They are well-established precursors and clinical markers for an increased risk of cutaneous melanoma. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Salmon Patch vs. Port-wine Stain:** Unlike Salmon patches, Port-wine stains (*Nevus Flammeus*) do not fade with age and may be associated with **Sturge-Weber Syndrome**. * **Rule of 20:** Giant congenital nevi are often defined as those predicted to reach >20 cm in diameter by adulthood. * **Other common premalignant skin lesions:** Actinic keratosis (precursor to SCC), Bowen’s disease (SCC in situ), and Xeroderma pigmentosum.

Question 1

Which of the following cutaneous malignancies does not metastasize through the lymphatics?

Accepted Answer

Basal cell carcinoma

Answer

Squamous cell carcinoma

Answer

Melanoma

Answer

Kaposi's sarcoma

Question 2

An HIV-positive patient presents with a characteristic lesion on the leg and a history of HHV-8 infection. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Kaposi sarcoma

Answer

Lymphoma

Answer

Malignant melanoma

Answer

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Question 3

Which is considered the most severe form of malignant melanoma?

Accepted Answer

Nodular infiltrating type

Answer

Superficially spreading

Answer

Those arising in the lower limb

Answer

Those in the choroid

Question 4

A 50-year-old female presented with ulcerated firm to hard nodules over the covered parts of her body, along with generalized erythema, edema, and extreme pruritus. Initially, they were barely palpable erythematous, well-defined patches, which later converged to plaques and became itchy, ultimately turning into the current lesions. Cervical lymphadenopathy was also noted. Skin biopsy from the lesion was taken, and a peripheral blood smear showed abnormal cells. Which is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Sezary disease

Answer

Tinea corporis

Answer

Psoriasis

Answer

Lichen planus

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a criterion for Sézary syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Absolute Sézary cell count >2000/mm3

Answer

Erythroderma

Answer

Sézary cell count >5% in buffy coat

Answer

Sézary cell count >20% in peripheral smear

Question 6

Which of the following skin conditions is primarily associated with sun exposure?

Accepted Answer

Actinic keratosis

Answer

Seborrhoeic keratosis

Answer

Sebaceous cell carcinoma

Answer

Syringoma

Question 7

Which FDA-approved drug is used for the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma?

Accepted Answer

Imiquimod

Answer

Acyclovir

Answer

Clobetasol

Answer

Terbinafine

Question 8

Which of the following conditions is related to sunlight exposure?

Accepted Answer

Actinic keratosis

Answer

Molluscum contagiosum

Answer

Ichthyosis

Answer

Basal cell carcinoma

Question 9

A 22-year-old patient presents with multiple neural tumors, pigmented iris hamartomas, and numerous tan macules on his skin. His father, paternal uncle, and paternal grandfather had a similar condition. This patient likely suffers from which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Neurofibromatosis type I

Answer

Ependymoma

Answer

Huntington disease

Answer

Marfan syndrome

Question 10

All of the following are premalignant lesions except?

Accepted Answer

Salmon patch

Answer

Extramammary Paget's disease

Answer

Giant congenital pigmented naevus

Answer

Dysplastic naevus

Skin Tumors — MCQs

Skin Tumors — MCQs

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