Which lesion is described as a well-defined, elevated cluster of flat, scaly skin?

Which lesion is described as a well-defined, elevated cluster of flat, scaly skin?

• A. Scale
• B. Wart
• C. Plaque
• D. Xanthoma

Answer: (C)

Plaque is an elevated, flat-topped lesion that can form when multiple papules coalesce, and its surface is often scaly due to thickened epidermis. The description “well-defined, elevated cluster of flat, scaly skin” fits this shape: it’s a single, raised patch with a flat top and a scaly surface. A scale would be just a loose flake of skin, not an elevated patch. A wart is typically a rough, keratotic lesion that grows outward, not simply a flat-topped, scaly patch. A xanthoma is a lipid-filled deposit presenting as yellowish plaques or nodules rather than scaly lesions. So the best match is plaque.

Plaque is an elevated, flat-topped lesion that can form when multiple papules coalesce, and its surface is often scaly due to thickened epidermis. The description “well-defined, elevated cluster of flat, scaly skin” fits this shape: it’s a single, raised patch with a flat top and a scaly surface. A scale would be just a loose flake of skin, not an elevated patch. A wart is typically a rough, keratotic lesion that grows outward, not simply a flat-topped, scaly patch. A xanthoma is a lipid-filled deposit presenting as yellowish plaques or nodules rather than scaly lesions. So the best match is plaque.