During the breast examination of a client, the nurse notes an orange-peel or "peau d'orange" appearance of the skin of the breast.
The nurse understands that this appearance of the skin is due to what type of breast condition?

Choice A rationale

Vitiligo is a condition caused by the destruction or malfunction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin pigment. This leads to the development of white patches on the skin, as melanin is absent in these areas. Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition and can affect any part of the body, including the skin, hair, and mucous membranes.

Choice B rationale

Excess apocrine glands in the feet are not related to vitiligo. Apocrine glands are sweat glands found primarily in the underarm and genital areas and are responsible for the secretion of a thick, odorless fluid. Their overactivity does not result in the white patches seen in vitiligo.

Choice C rationale

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection characterized by red sores, blisters, and crusting. It is not related to vitiligo and does not cause depigmentation. Impetigo is treated with antibiotics, whereas vitiligo requires different management strategies to address the loss of pigment.

Choice D rationale

Vitiligo is not caused by an excess of melanin pigment. Rather, it is the result of melanin loss or the absence of melanocytes in certain areas of the skin, leading to the characteristic white patches.

Choice A rationale

Separation of the retina from the choroid, also known as retinal detachment, is a different condition altogether. Retinal detachment can cause vision loss but is not related to macular degeneration. This condition often requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss and is typically characterized by the sudden appearance of floaters, flashes of light, and a shadow or curtain over a portion of the visual field.

Choice B rationale

Peripheral vision loss and seeing halos around light are more commonly associated with conditions like glaucoma. Glaucoma involves increased intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to peripheral vision loss and seeing halos around lights. This condition can be managed with medications or surgery to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further vision loss.

Choice C rationale

Complaints of severe pain and pressure in the eye are indicative of acute angle-closure glaucoma. This is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent optic nerve damage. The symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma are sudden and severe and can include headache, nausea, and vomiting, along with the eye pain and pressure.

Choice D rationale

Central vision loss with intact peripheral vision is characteristic of macular degeneration, particularly age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. As the macula deteriorates, central vision becomes blurry or wavy, making it difficult to read, drive, or recognize faces, while peripheral vision remains largely unaffected.