CEA Nursing Practice Exam

Which dermatologic lesion is considered precancerous and commonly due to prolonged UV-B exposure?

1. Actinic Keratosis

2. Basal cell carcinoma

3. Verucca

4. Seborrheic dermatitis

The correct answer is: Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratosis is recognized as a precancerous dermatologic lesion that develops as a result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV-B) radiation. This condition manifests as rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas of the skin, often representing an initial stage in the progression toward skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. The lesion arises from damage to the skin cells due to repeated UV exposure, leading to changes in the skin's keratinocytes, which make them more prone to mutations that can eventually result in cancerous growth. Actinic keratosis serves as a warning sign, indicating that the skin has sustained significant sun damage and requires protective measures, such as the application of sunscreen and avoidance of excessive sun exposure. Other options such as basal cell carcinoma are malignant but not classified as precancerous. Verruca, or warts, are caused by viral infections and have no direct relation to UV exposure, while seborrheic dermatitis is primarily a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is not linked to sun exposure or cancer. Understanding the distinctions among these conditions highlights the unique role of actinic keratosis in the spectrum of skin lesions associated with UV damage.