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ACVD Veterinary Dermatology study materials
ACVD Veterinary Dermatology study resources

ACVD Veterinary Dermatology practice questions

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Question 1Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which organism is the most common cause of superficial bacterial folliculitis in dogs?

  1. Malassezia pachydermatis
  2. Staphylococcus pseudintermedius Correct answer.
  3. Escherichia coli
  4. Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Explanation

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is the predominant commensal and opportunistic pathogen of canine skin, and it accounts for most superficial pyoderma cases. Pseudomonas and E. coli are typically associated with deeper or otitis externa infections, and Malassezia is a yeast rather than a bacterium.

Question 2Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog has pruritus, erythema, and a greasy odor with brownish discoloration in the axillae and interdigital spaces. Cytology shows many peanut-shaped budding yeasts. What is the most likely diagnosis?

  1. Sarcoptic mange
  2. Dermatophytosis
  3. Malassezia dermatitis Correct answer.
  4. Demodicosis

Explanation

Peanut- or footprint-shaped budding yeasts on cytology are characteristic of Malassezia pachydermatis, which favors intertriginous and interdigital skin. The greasy, malodorous presentation in these sites is typical of Malassezia overgrowth.

Question 3Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the classic clinical sign of sarcoptic mange in dogs?

  1. Annular scaling lesions with central clearing
  2. Painful nodules along the dorsal midline
  3. Intense pruritus with pinnal-pedal reflex Correct answer.
  4. Alopecia with comedones on the trunk

Explanation

Sarcoptic mange causes severe pruritus, and the pinnal-pedal reflex (hind-limb scratching when the pinna is rubbed) is a classic supportive finding. Lesions often involve the ear margins, elbows, and ventrum.

Question 4Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A cat presents with multiple annular, crusted, alopecic lesions on the head and forelimbs. Wood's lamp examination shows apple-green fluorescence of affected hairs. Which organism is most likely responsible?

  1. Microsporum canis Correct answer.
  2. Aspergillus fumigatus
  3. Malassezia pachydermatis
  4. Trichophyton mentagrophytes

Explanation

Microsporum canis is the most common dermatophyte in cats and often fluoresces apple-green under Wood's lamp. Trichophyton species typically do not fluoresce, and Malassezia and Aspergillus are not dermatophytes.

Question 5Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which mite is responsible for canine demodicosis?

  1. Demodex canis Correct answer.
  2. Otodectes cynotis
  3. Cheyletiella yasguri
  4. Neotrombicula autumnalis

Explanation

Demodex canis is the elongated mite that inhabits canine hair follicles and causes demodicosis. Diagnosis is confirmed by deep skin scrapings or hair plucks showing the characteristic cigar-shaped mites.

Question 6Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog is diagnosed with atopic dermatitis. Which statement best describes the underlying pathophysiology?

  1. An autoimmune attack on the basement membrane
  2. A contagious fungal infection of the stratum corneum
  3. A primary defect in keratinization without immune involvement
  4. A type I hypersensitivity response to environmental allergens Correct answer.

Explanation

Canine atopic dermatitis is primarily a type I hypersensitivity reaction to environmental allergens, with IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation and a skin barrier defect contributing. Autoimmune, infectious, and purely keratinization disorders have different mechanisms.

Question 7Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is a common clinical sign of flea allergy dermatitis in dogs?

  1. Symmetric alopecia of the flanks with a pot-bellied appearance
  2. Vesicles and ulcers on the nasal planum
  3. Alopecia of the ear pinnae with ear margin scaling
  4. Pruritus and alopecia over the caudal dorsum and tail base Correct answer.

Explanation

Flea allergy dermatitis classically affects the caudal dorsum, tail base, and perineum, producing pruritus, alopecia, and excoriations. The distribution reflects where fleas preferentially feed and allergen is deposited.

Question 8Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

What is the preferred first-line treatment for a localized area of pyoderma in a dog when the owner cannot administer oral medication?

  1. Topical antibacterial shampoo or spray Correct answer.
  2. Systemic glucocorticoids
  3. Subcutaneous ivermectin
  4. Oral antifungal therapy

Explanation

Superficial or localized pyoderma can often be managed with topical antibacterial agents such as chlorhexidine-based shampoos or sprays. Systemic antibiotics are reserved for generalized or deep infections, and steroids, antifungals, and ivermectin do not treat bacterial pyoderma.

Question 9Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog with chronic otitis externa has a dark, waxy discharge and cytology shows many Malassezia organisms. Which topical treatment is most appropriate?

  1. A systemic corticosteroid injection
  2. An antifungal ear cleaner containing miconazole Correct answer.
  3. An antibiotic-only ear drop containing gentamicin
  4. A hypoallergenic diet trial

Explanation

Malassezia otitis is treated with topical antifungal agents such as miconazole, often combined with an acidic or ceruminolytic cleaner. Antibiotic-only preparations do not address the yeast, and systemic steroids or diet trials do not eliminate the organism.

Question 10Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A 3-year-old dog presents with generalized demodicosis confirmed by deep skin scrapings. Which treatment approach is most appropriate?

  1. Immediate euthanasia because the condition is incurable
  2. Topical glucocorticoids to reduce inflammation
  3. Short course of oral prednisolone alone
  4. Isoxazoline parasiticide with concurrent management of underlying disease Correct answer.

Explanation

Generalized demodicosis is treated with an acaricidal isoxazoline and concurrent identification and management of underlying immunosuppressive or endocrine disease. Steroids alone do not kill mites and can worsen the disease, and most cases are treatable.

Question 11Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog is suspected of having food allergy. Which diagnostic approach is considered the reference standard?

  1. A 3-day switch to a novel protein without challenge
  2. An 8-week elimination diet trial with subsequent provocative challenge Correct answer.
  3. Serum IgE testing for food allergens
  4. Intradermal skin testing with food allergens

Explanation

The diagnosis of food allergy requires a strict elimination diet trial, typically for 8 weeks, followed by provocation with the original diet to confirm relapse. Serologic and intradermal food allergen tests are unreliable for diagnosis.

Question 12Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following best distinguishes pemphigus foliaceus from superficial bacterial pyoderma on cytology?

  1. Presence of neutrophils
  2. Presence of eosinophils
  3. Presence of cocci
  4. Presence of acantholytic keratinocytes Correct answer.

Explanation

Pemphigus foliaceus is an autoimmune pustular disease in which acantholysis releases rounded keratinocytes into pustules. Neutrophils and bacteria can be seen in pyoderma, but acantholytic cells point toward an autoimmune process.

Question 13Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A cat with diabetes mellitus develops recurrent skin infections. Which factor most likely predisposes this cat to infection?

  1. Increased sebum production from hyperthyroidism
  2. Excessive grooming leading to barbering
  3. Impaired neutrophil function associated with hyperglycemia Correct answer.
  4. Allergic sensitization to pollen

Explanation

Hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus impairs neutrophil chemotaxis and phagocytosis, increasing susceptibility to bacterial and fungal skin infections. The other options describe unrelated mechanisms.

Question 14Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most appropriate first step in evaluating a dog with pruritic dermatitis?

  1. Start long-term oral cyclosporine immediately
  2. Perform a food elimination trial before any other testing
  3. Perform skin scrapings and cytology to rule out infectious and parasitic causes Correct answer.
  4. Begin allergen-specific immunotherapy

Explanation

Before diagnosing allergic skin disease, infectious and parasitic causes such as demodicosis, scabies, pyoderma, and Malassezia must be excluded with scrapings and cytology. Immunotherapy and immunosuppressants are inappropriate before this baseline workup.

Question 15Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog has alopecia, hyperpigmentation, and comedones on the ventral abdomen and is also polyuric and polydipsic. Which endocrine disorder is most likely?

  1. Hyperparathyroidism
  2. Diabetes insipidus
  3. Hypothyroidism
  4. Hyperadrenocorticism Correct answer.

Explanation

Hyperadrenocorticism commonly causes bilateral symmetric alopecia, hyperpigmentation, comedones, and thin skin, along with polyuria and polydipsia. Hypothyroidism can cause alopecia but not typically the comedones and polyuria described.

Question 16Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is true regarding the use of glucocorticoids in the management of canine atopic dermatitis?

  1. They are effective only when given topically
  2. They are contraindicated in all atopic dogs
  3. They reduce pruritus and inflammation but should be used at the lowest effective dose Correct answer.
  4. They cure the underlying allergic hypersensitivity

Explanation

Glucocorticoids provide symptomatic relief of pruritus and inflammation but do not alter the underlying allergic disease, so the lowest effective dose and monitoring for adverse effects are essential. They are not curative and can be given systemically or topically.

Question 17Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog presents with acute-onset severe pruritus, erythema, and papules on the pinnae, elbows, and ventrum, and the owner reports a recent visit to a grassy field. Which ectoparasite is most likely?

  1. Otodectes cynotis
  2. Cheyletiella yasguri
  3. Demodex canis
  4. Neotrombicula autumnalis (harvest mite) Correct answer.

Explanation

Harvest mite larvae cause seasonal, intensely pruritic papules on contact areas such as pinnae, elbows, and ventrum after exposure to grassy areas. Demodex causes non-pruritic follicular disease, Otodectes affects the ears, and Cheyletiella causes walking dandruff.

Question 18Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which statement about dermatophyte culture is correct?

  1. Culture results are available within one hour
  2. Culture is unnecessary because Wood's lamp identifies all dermatophytes
  3. A positive culture must be interpreted alongside clinical signs because some animals are asymptomatic carriers Correct answer.
  4. A negative culture definitively excludes dermatophytosis

Explanation

Dermatophyte culture can be positive in asymptomatic carriers, so results must be correlated with clinical signs and other testing. Not all dermatophytes fluoresce, and culture typically requires days to weeks.

Question 19Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog is being treated with oral ketoconazole for Malassezia dermatitis. Which monitoring consideration is most important?

  1. Permanent blindness from retinal toxicity
  2. Hepatotoxicity and drug interactions due to hepatic metabolism Correct answer.
  3. Bone marrow suppression causing pancytopenia
  4. Irreversible renal failure requiring dialysis

Explanation

Azole antifungals such as ketoconazole are hepatotoxic and interact with many drugs through hepatic cytochrome metabolism, so liver enzymes and concurrent medications should be monitored. Renal failure, pancytopenia, and retinal toxicity are not the primary concerns.

Question 20Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of oclacitinib in canine atopic dermatitis?

  1. Janus kinase inhibition reducing cytokine signaling Correct answer.
  2. Cyclosporine-mediated T-cell suppression
  3. Corticosteroid receptor agonism
  4. Antihistamine H1 receptor blockade

Explanation

Oclacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor that blocks signaling of pruritogenic and proinflammatory cytokines. It is not a corticosteroid, cyclosporine, or antihistamine.

Question 21Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog has multifocal deep nodules and draining tracts on the trunk. Cytology reveals neutrophils with intracellular rods, and culture grows Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. Which term best describes this condition?

  1. Deep pyoderma Correct answer.
  2. Epidermal collarette
  3. Sebaceous adenitis
  4. Superficial folliculitis

Explanation

Deep pyoderma extends into the dermis and produces nodules, draining tracts, and intracellular bacteria within neutrophils. Superficial folliculitis is confined to the follicle, epidermal collarettes are surface lesions, and sebaceous adenitis is an inflammatory condition of sebaceous glands.

Question 22Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

In a dog with suspected atopic dermatitis, which finding supports the diagnosis as a clinical diagnosis of exclusion?

  1. Presence of Demodex mites on scraping
  2. Compatible history and clinical signs after ruling out other pruritic diseases Correct answer.
  3. A single positive intradermal test alone
  4. Growth of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius on culture

Explanation

Canine atopic dermatitis is a clinical diagnosis based on compatible history and signs after excluding other causes of pruritus such as parasites and infection. Intradermal testing supports allergen selection but does not by itself diagnose atopy.

Question 23Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is a recognized adverse effect of long-term systemic glucocorticoid therapy in dogs with skin disease?

  1. Immediate anaphylaxis in most patients
  2. Irreversible blindness
  3. Permanent hair loss from follicle destruction
  4. Iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism Correct answer.

Explanation

Prolonged glucocorticoid use can produce iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism with polyuria, polydipsia, muscle wasting, and skin thinning. Follicle destruction, anaphylaxis in most patients, and irreversible blindness are not typical consequences.

Question 24Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog with chronic otitis externa has a narrowed, fibrotic ear canal and fails medical management. What is the most appropriate next step?

  1. Systemic antihistamines as sole therapy
  2. Repeated ear cleaning without further assessment
  3. Surgical evaluation for total ear canal ablation and bulla osteotomy Correct answer.
  4. Continued topical antibiotics indefinitely

Explanation

End-stage otitis with fibrosis and canal narrowing that fails medical therapy often requires surgical management such as total ear canal ablation with bulla osteotomy. Continuing ineffective medical therapy or relying on antihistamines alone is unlikely to resolve the problem.

Question 25Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following statements about the zoonotic potential of dermatophytosis is most accurate?

  1. Microsporum canis can be transmitted from infected pets to people Correct answer.
  2. Dermatophytosis is spread only by direct contact with soil
  3. Dermatophytes cannot infect humans
  4. Only immunocompromised people can be infected

Explanation

Microsporum canis is zoonotic and can be transmitted from infected pets to in-contact people, especially children and immunocompromised individuals. Dermatophytes can infect immunocompetent people, and transmission can also occur via fomites and contaminated environments.

Question 26Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog is diagnosed with generalized demodicosis. Which of the following is the most appropriate first-line treatment?

  1. Oral fluralaner at label dose Correct answer.
  2. Topical amitraz applied weekly
  3. Oral ivermectin daily
  4. Oral milbemycin oxime daily

Explanation

Isoxazolines such as fluralaner are effective and convenient for treating generalized demodicosis in dogs. They are now considered first-line due to ease of administration and good safety profile. Other options are either not approved or have more adverse effects.

Question 27Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most common clinical sign of canine scabies?

  1. Nodular lesions with draining tracts
  2. Intense pruritus with papules and crusts on the pinnae and elbows Correct answer.
  3. Greasy seborrhea with a rancid odor
  4. Alopecia with comedones on the ventral abdomen

Explanation

Sarcoptic mange typically causes severe pruritus with papular and crusted lesions, often on the ear margins, elbows, and hocks. The pinnal-pedal reflex may be present. Other options describe demodicosis, Malassezia dermatitis, or deep pyoderma.

Question 28Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A cat presents with multiple areas of alopecia and scaling. Wood's lamp examination is negative. Which diagnostic test is most appropriate to confirm dermatophytosis?

  1. Bacterial culture of exudate
  2. Cytology of impression smears
  3. Fungal culture of hair and scale Correct answer.
  4. Skin scraping for mites

Explanation

Fungal culture is the gold standard for diagnosing dermatophytosis because Wood's lamp is only positive for some Microsporum species and cytology lacks sensitivity. Culture identifies the organism and confirms viability.

Question 29Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is a key cytological finding in pemphigus foliaceus?

  1. Numerous Malassezia yeasts
  2. Numerous neutrophils with intracellular cocci
  3. Acantholytic keratinocytes with non-degenerate neutrophils Correct answer.
  4. Eosinophils with collagen degeneration

Explanation

Pemphigus foliaceus is characterized by acantholysis, leading to rounded keratinocytes that appear singly or in clusters, often with non-degenerate neutrophils. This distinguishes it from bacterial pyoderma, where neutrophils are degenerate and bacteria may be seen.

Question 30Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog with atopic dermatitis has been well controlled on prednisolone but develops polyuria and polydipsia. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

  1. Add a second glucocorticoid
  2. Transition to a non-steroidal antipruritic such as oclacitinib Correct answer.
  3. Increase the prednisolone dose
  4. Discontinue all therapy

Explanation

Polyuria and polydipsia are common adverse effects of glucocorticoids. Switching to a non-steroidal antipruritic like oclacitinib can maintain control while avoiding steroid side effects. Increasing steroids would worsen signs, and stopping all therapy may lead to a flare.

Question 31Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment for a dog with generalized demodicosis that is not responding to oral ivermectin?

  1. Topical amitraz
  2. Topical glucocorticoids
  3. Oral fluralaner Correct answer.
  4. Oral ketoconazole

Explanation

Fluralaner is a systemic isoxazoline that is highly effective against Demodex mites and is a good choice for cases refractory to other treatments. Amitraz is not approved for generalized demodicosis, ketoconazole is antifungal, and glucocorticoids would worsen the disease.

Question 32Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog presents with a pruritic, erythematous, and lichenified area on the ventral abdomen. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause?

  1. Contact dermatitis
  2. Flea allergy dermatitis
  3. Food allergy
  4. Atopic dermatitis Correct answer.

Explanation

Atopic dermatitis often affects the ventral abdomen, causing erythema, pruritus, and lichenification. Flea allergy typically affects the caudal dorsum, food allergy often causes perianal and facial pruritus, and contact dermatitis is usually limited to areas in contact with the allergen.

Question 33Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most appropriate first-line treatment for a dog with superficial bacterial pyoderma?

  1. Oral cephalexin for 21 days Correct answer.
  2. Topical chlorhexidine shampoo weekly
  3. Topical mupirocin for 7 days
  4. Oral enrofloxacin for 14 days

Explanation

Superficial bacterial pyoderma is typically treated with oral antibiotics such as cephalexin for a minimum of 21 days, or until clinical resolution plus one week. Topical therapy alone may be insufficient for widespread lesions, and fluoroquinolones are reserved for resistant cases.

Question 34Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A cat with diabetes mellitus develops recurrent skin infections. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause?

  1. Immunosuppression from diabetes Correct answer.
  2. Feline herpesvirus
  3. Hyperthyroidism
  4. Feline leukemia virus

Explanation

Diabetes mellitus impairs immune function, predisposing cats to recurrent infections, including skin infections. Hyperthyroidism can cause skin changes but not typically recurrent infections, and viral infections are less directly associated with bacterial skin infections.

Question 35Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most common cause of otitis externa in dogs?

  1. Yeast infection
  2. Ear mites
  3. Underlying allergy Correct answer.
  4. Bacterial infection

Explanation

Underlying allergies, such as atopic dermatitis or food allergy, are the most common primary causes of otitis externa in dogs. Bacteria and yeast are often secondary or perpetuating factors. Ear mites are less common in adult dogs.

Question 36Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most appropriate diagnostic test for suspected food allergy in a dog?

  1. Intradermal skin testing
  2. Fecal examination
  3. Elimination diet trial with rechallenge Correct answer.
  4. Serum allergy testing

Explanation

An elimination diet trial followed by rechallenge is the gold standard for diagnosing food allergy. Serum and intradermal testing are unreliable for food allergens, and fecal examination is for parasites.

Question 37Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is a common adverse effect of long-term glucocorticoid therapy in dogs?

  1. Weight loss
  2. Anemia
  3. Hypoglycemia
  4. Polyuria and polydipsia Correct answer.

Explanation

Long-term glucocorticoid use commonly causes polyuria and polydipsia due to effects on ADH and increased glomerular filtration. Weight gain, not loss, is more typical, and hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia, can occur.

Question 38Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the mechanism of action of oclacitinib in treating canine atopic dermatitis?

  1. Blockade of histamine receptors
  2. Suppression of T-cell activation
  3. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase
  4. Inhibition of Janus kinase enzymes Correct answer.

Explanation

Oclacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor that blocks signaling of cytokines involved in pruritus and inflammation, such as IL-31. Antihistamines block histamine receptors, and corticosteroids suppress T cells and inhibit cyclooxygenase.

Question 39Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog has a deep pyoderma with nodules and draining tracts. Cytology shows neutrophils with intracellular rods. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial treatment?

  1. Surgical excision of all lesions
  2. Oral glucocorticoids
  3. Topical antibiotic ointment
  4. Oral antibiotic for 4-6 weeks Correct answer.

Explanation

Deep pyoderma requires systemic antibiotics for an extended duration, typically 4-6 weeks or longer, based on culture and susceptibility. Topical therapy alone is insufficient, glucocorticoids are contraindicated, and surgery is not feasible for multiple lesions.

Question 40Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most appropriate method for diagnosing feline dermatophytosis?

  1. Wood's lamp examination
  2. Fungal culture of plucked hairs Correct answer.
  3. Impression cytology
  4. Skin scraping

Explanation

Fungal culture of plucked hairs and scales is the most reliable method for diagnosing dermatophytosis in cats. Wood's lamp is only positive for some Microsporum canis infections, and cytology and skin scraping are less sensitive.

Question 41Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog with atopic dermatitis is being treated with cyclosporine. Which of the following monitoring parameters is most important?

  1. Renal function Correct answer.
  2. Blood glucose
  3. Blood pressure
  4. Liver enzymes

Explanation

Cyclosporine can cause nephrotoxicity, so monitoring renal function is important. Liver enzymes and blood glucose are more relevant for other medications like ketoconazole or glucocorticoids, and blood pressure is not primarily affected by cyclosporine.

Question 42Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is a characteristic finding of Malassezia dermatitis on cytology?

  1. Budding yeasts with a peanut shape Correct answer.
  2. Acantholytic keratinocytes
  3. Intracellular bacteria
  4. Spindle-shaped cells

Explanation

Malassezia pachydermatis appears as peanut-shaped budding yeasts on cytology. Acantholytic keratinocytes suggest pemphigus, intracellular bacteria indicate pyoderma, and spindle cells are seen in mesenchymal tumors.

Question 43Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog with chronic pruritus has a history of recurrent pyoderma and otitis externa. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

  1. Food allergy
  2. Flea allergy dermatitis
  3. Contact dermatitis
  4. Atopic dermatitis Correct answer.

Explanation

Atopic dermatitis often presents with chronic pruritus, recurrent pyoderma, and otitis externa. Food allergy can cause similar signs but is less commonly associated with recurrent otitis, and flea allergy typically affects the caudal dorsum.

Question 44Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment for a cat with Malassezia dermatitis?

  1. Oral cephalexin
  2. Topical miconazole shampoo
  3. Oral itraconazole Correct answer.
  4. Topical glucocorticoids

Explanation

Oral itraconazole is effective for Malassezia dermatitis in cats. Topical miconazole shampoo can be used but may be difficult in cats, and cephalexin is an antibiotic. Glucocorticoids do not treat yeast infections.

Question 45Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most common clinical sign of feline eosinophilic granuloma complex?

  1. Pustules on the chin
  2. Raised, erythematous plaques on the lips Correct answer.
  3. Alopecia on the flanks
  4. Pruritic papules on the abdomen

Explanation

Feline eosinophilic granuloma complex often presents as raised, erythematous plaques on the lips (indolent ulcer) or as eosinophilic plaques. Pruritic papules and pustules are more typical of other conditions.

Question 46Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog with suspected hypothyroidism has bilaterally symmetric alopecia and hyperpigmentation. Which of the following is the most appropriate diagnostic test?

  1. Intradermal skin testing
  2. Wood's lamp examination
  3. Skin scraping
  4. Total T4 and TSH Correct answer.

Explanation

Hypothyroidism is diagnosed with a total T4 and TSH, though results can be affected by non-thyroidal illness. Skin scraping, Wood's lamp, and intradermal testing are used for other dermatological conditions.

Question 47Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is a common cause of pododermatitis in dogs?

  1. Atopic dermatitis Correct answer.
  2. Hyperadrenocorticism
  3. Diabetes mellitus
  4. Hypothyroidism

Explanation

Atopic dermatitis frequently affects the paws, causing pododermatitis. Endocrine diseases like hypothyroidism, diabetes, and hyperadrenocorticism can cause skin changes but are less commonly primary causes of pododermatitis.

Question 48Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog with pemphigus foliaceus is treated with prednisolone and azathioprine. Which of the following is the most important monitoring parameter for azathioprine?

  1. Serum electrolytes
  2. Blood pressure
  3. Urinalysis
  4. Complete blood count Correct answer.

Explanation

Azathioprine can cause bone marrow suppression, so monitoring the complete blood count is essential. Urinalysis, blood pressure, and electrolytes are not the primary concerns with azathioprine.

Question 49Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment for a dog with flea allergy dermatitis?

  1. Oral antihistamines as sole therapy
  2. Oral glucocorticoids as sole therapy
  3. Topical antibiotics
  4. Strict flea control with adulticides and environmental treatment Correct answer.

Explanation

Flea allergy dermatitis is managed with strict flea control, including adulticides on the pet and environmental treatment to break the life cycle. Glucocorticoids and antihistamines may provide symptomatic relief but do not address the underlying cause.

Question 50Veterinary Dermatology (specific content domains not enumerated in source)

A dog with hyperadrenocorticism presents with comedones, thin skin, and alopecia. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause?

  1. Deficiency of estrogen
  2. Excess growth hormone
  3. Deficiency of thyroid hormone
  4. Excess cortisol Correct answer.

Explanation

Hyperadrenocorticism is caused by excess cortisol, which leads to thin skin, comedones, and alopecia. Hypothyroidism is caused by thyroid hormone deficiency, and excess growth hormone causes acromegaly.