Basic and Clinical Sciences (BCSE) Practice Exam

What type of skin reaction is common in drug eruptions?

1. Dryness and peeling

2. Vesicular eruptions

3. Urticarial lesions

4. Pustular lesions

The correct answer is: Urticarial lesions

Urticarial lesions are a common skin reaction associated with drug eruptions, primarily due to the histamine release from mast cells triggered by drug allergens. These lesions are characterized by raised, itchy welts that can vary in size and shape, often appearing and disappearing rapidly. The mechanism behind urticaria involves an immune response, where the body recognizes certain medications as foreign substances, leading to localized inflammation. Other skin reactions, such as dryness and peeling, vesicular eruptions, or pustular lesions, can occur due to various skin conditions or other types of reactions to medications, but they are not as typical in drug eruptions. For example, dryness and peeling might indicate a different dermatological issue or reaction, vesicular eruptions often suggest viral infection or contact dermatitis, and pustular lesions are more closely associated with bacterial infections or inflammatory conditions like psoriasis. Understanding the specific nature and mechanisms of urticarial reactions helps in identifying and managing drug eruptions effectively.