Which description matches a plaque (primary skin lesion)?

Which description matches a plaque (primary skin lesion)?

• A. Wart: viral infection on the top layer of skin caused by the human papillomavirus
• B. Well defined, elevated cluster of flat, scaly skin
• C. Sometimes called hyperkeratosis or keratoma; a thickening of the epidermis
• D. Red, itchy, swollen spots/patches; seen in allergic reactions

Answer: (B)

A plaque is a raised, broad, flat-topped lesion, usually larger than 1 cm, that often forms when smaller papules merge or when the epidermis thickens into a plateau-like area. The description that fits best is a well defined, elevated cluster of flat, scaly skin because it captures the raised, expansive surface with a flat top that characterizes a plaque, often with a slightly scaly texture from surface epidermal changes. The other options describe different skin problems: a wart is a papillomatous, rough growth caused by HPV; red, itchy patches describe inflammatory dermatitis or urticaria; and thickening of the epidermis called hyperkeratosis can produce roughness or callus but doesn’t emphasize the distinct flat-topped, broad, elevated lesion that defines a plaque.

A plaque is a raised, broad, flat-topped lesion, usually larger than 1 cm, that often forms when smaller papules merge or when the epidermis thickens into a plateau-like area. The description that fits best is a well defined, elevated cluster of flat, scaly skin because it captures the raised, expansive surface with a flat top that characterizes a plaque, often with a slightly scaly texture from surface epidermal changes. The other options describe different skin problems: a wart is a papillomatous, rough growth caused by HPV; red, itchy patches describe inflammatory dermatitis or urticaria; and thickening of the epidermis called hyperkeratosis can produce roughness or callus but doesn’t emphasize the distinct flat-topped, broad, elevated lesion that defines a plaque.