American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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Prepare for the American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam with detailed quizzes. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions to master the ABS QE topics. Get all the hints and explanations you need to succeed on your first attempt!

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What type of carcinoma is characterized by a crusty, ulcerated appearance?

Adenocarcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma
Melanoma

The correct answer is: Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is often characterized by a crusty, ulcerated appearance. This type of skin cancer arises from the squamous cells, which are the flat cells located in the outer layer of the skin. The lesions associated with squamous cell carcinoma can present as firm, red nodules or flat sores that may crust over or ulcerate. The tendency for these lesions to become ulcerated is due to their aggressive nature and the fact that they can invade surrounding tissues more readily than some other skin cancers. In contrast, basal cell carcinoma typically appears as a pearly, translucent lesion rather than crusty or ulcerated, and melanoma can present in various ways, but it's usually noted for its atypical pigmentation rather than an ulcerated surface. Adenocarcinoma primarily affects glandular tissues and does not have a typical characteristic presentation involving skin lesions. Understanding the distinct clinical features of these carcinomas is crucial in making an accurate diagnosis.