Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the common characteristic of lesions in atopic dermatitis?

1. They may have bullae

2. They occur in a linear fashion

3. They are not pruritic

4. They are always found on the hands

The correct answer is: They occur in a linear fashion

Lesions in atopic dermatitis are often characterized by their distribution and appearance, which can include a tendency to occur in a linear fashion. This is particularly seen in chronic or recurring cases where the lesions can appear scratched or excoriated due to the intense itching associated with the condition. This pattern is reflective of the eczema's tendency to follow the lines of scratching or can be a result of contact with allergens, leading to a linear arrangement of the affected areas. This characteristic can help differentiate atopic dermatitis from other dermatoses that may have a different lesion pattern and distribution. In contrast, lesions in atopic dermatitis are typically pruritic, as itching is a hallmark symptom of the condition. Itchiness often leads to scratching, which may in turn aggravate the lesions. While lesions can appear on various body locations, they are not exclusively found on the hands, and bullae formation is not a common primary feature of atopic dermatitis. Therefore, the identification of linear arrangements in the lesions aligns with observed clinical patterns, making it a key aspect of atopic dermatitis diagnosis and management.