CEA Nursing Practice Exam

Which of the following lesions is characterized as darkened, round, and raised, appearing "stuck on" to the skin?

1. Seborrheic Keratosis

2. Hemangioma

3. Basal cell carcinoma

4. Achrocordon

The correct answer is: Seborrheic Keratosis

Seborrheic keratosis is characterized by its appearance as darkened, round, and raised lesions that often appear "stuck on" to the skin's surface. These benign growths commonly occur in older adults and can vary in color from light tan to dark brown or black. The texture is typically wart-like or scaly, which contributes to the sensation that they are embedded in the skin rather than sitting on top of it. Seborrheic keratosis lesions are common and usually harmless, though they can be mistaken for more serious skin conditions if not accurately identified. Understanding their distinct characteristics helps differentiate them from other skin lesions, such as hemangiomas, which are blood vessel growths that do not have the same "stuck on" appearance, or basal cell carcinomas, which often present as pearly, ulcerated growths. Achrocordon, or skin tags, are usually smaller and more mobile rather than being raised and stuck on like seborrheic keratosis. This thorough identification aids in appropriate assessment and management of skin growths.