Skin Diagnostic Studies Flashcards
What is traction alopecia?
Hair loss due to tension from hair rollers, braiding, or straightening combs.
What is the purpose of an excisional biopsy?
To achieve good cosmetic results and/or remove the entire lesion.
Describe an incisional biopsy.
A wedge-shaped incision made in a lesion too large for excisional biopsy.
What is the function of a punch biopsy?
To obtain full-thickness skin for diagnostic purposes using a special punch instrument.
What is a shave biopsy used for?
To shave off superficial lesions or obtain a small sample from a large lesion.
What does a culture test identify?
Fungal, bacterial, and viral organisms.
What are immunofluorescence studies used for?
To identify specific abnormal antibody proteins in skin diseases.
What is examined in a potassium hydroxide (KOH) test?
Hair, scales, or nails for superficial fungal infection.
What does the Tzanck test diagnose?
Herpes infections by examining fluid and cells from vesicles.
What is the purpose of a patch test?
To assess for allergic dermatitis and photoallergic reactions.
How is a Wood’s lamp used in dermatology?
To examine skin with UV light that causes specific substances to fluoresce.
What nursing responsibility is important before a biopsy?
Teach patient the purpose of the test.
During a punch biopsy, what should the specimen be placed in?
Special fixative (e.g., Michels) and not formalin.
What should patients be informed about after a patch test?
Not to wash the area or engage in vigorous sports for 48 hours.
True or False: A shave biopsy provides a thick specimen for diagnostic purposes.
False.
