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Which of the following diagnostic tests is commonly performed to confirm the diagnosis of psoriasis?

A.

Skin patch testing for allergens

B.

Chest X-ray to assess lung involvement

C.

Complete blood count (CBC) to assess white blood cell count

D.

Skin biopsy to examine histological changes

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Explanation: A skin biopsy is commonly performed to confirm the diagnosis of psoriasis. It involves taking a small sample of skin tissue from a psoriatic plaque and examining it under a microscope to identify the characteristic histological changes, such as hyperkeratosis, parakeratosis, and elongation of the rete ridges.

Incorrect choices: a. Skin patch testing for allergens: Patch testing is used to diagnose allergic contact dermatitis, not psoriasis.

b. Chest X-ray to assess lung involvement: Chest X-rays are not necessary for the diagnosis of psoriasis, as it primarily affects the skin and joints, not the lungs.

c. Complete blood count (CBC) to assess white blood cell count: While a CBC may be performed to assess inflammation, it is not specific to psoriasis and cannot confirm the diagnosis. A skin biopsy is needed for definitive diagnosis.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Explanation: The primary assessment technique used to diagnose psoriasis is a physical examination of the skin. The characteristic red, raised patches with silver scales are indicative of psoriasis. While additional tests like skin biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis, the initial diagnosis is based on the visual appearance of the skin lesions.

Incorrect choices: a. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of psoriasis, but it is not the primary assessment technique used to diagnose the condition.

b. Blood tests may be conducted to rule out other conditions or assess for systemic involvement, but they are not the primary method of diagnosing psoriasis.

d. MRI is not a diagnostic tool for psoriasis. It may be used in certain cases to assess joint involvement in psoriatic arthritis, but it does not diagnose psoriasis itself.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Explanation: A definitive diagnosis of psoriasis is often made through a skin biopsy, where a small sample of the affected skin is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of psoriasis-related changes.

Incorrect choices: a. Blood tests are not used to diagnose psoriasis, as it is not caused by a bacterial infection.

c. Chest X-rays are not part of the diagnostic process for psoriasis, as it primarily affects the skin and not the lungs.

d. Urinalysis is not used to diagnose psoriasis, as it does not provide relevant information about the skin condition.

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