Tinea corporis is best described by which lesion?

Tinea corporis is best described by which lesion?

• A. Circular or oval patches with sharp margins, raised erythematous scaly edge and central clearing
• B. Diffuse erythematous rash without central clearing
• C. Painful vesicular lesions on palms
• D. Linear erythema with vesicles along a nerve

Answer: (A)

Tinea corporis presents as an annular (ring-shaped) fungal infection of the body, with central clearing and a distinctly active, scaly border. The typical lesion is circular or oval, has sharp margins, and features a raised erythematous scaly edge surrounding a clear center where the skin looks relatively normal. This pattern reflects fungus spreading outward at the edge while the center heals, giving that ring-like appearance. Other patterns point to different conditions: a diffuse erythematous rash without central clearing suggests inflammatory or eczematous processes; painful vesicular lesions on the palms indicate a different dermatologic or viral condition; linear erythema with vesicles along a nerve is characteristic of herpes zoster. Therefore, the described circular/oval patch with a sharp, scaly edge and central clearing best fits tinea corporis.

Tinea corporis presents as an annular (ring-shaped) fungal infection of the body, with central clearing and a distinctly active, scaly border. The typical lesion is circular or oval, has sharp margins, and features a raised erythematous scaly edge surrounding a clear center where the skin looks relatively normal. This pattern reflects fungus spreading outward at the edge while the center heals, giving that ring-like appearance. Other patterns point to different conditions: a diffuse erythematous rash without central clearing suggests inflammatory or eczematous processes; painful vesicular lesions on the palms indicate a different dermatologic or viral condition; linear erythema with vesicles along a nerve is characteristic of herpes zoster. Therefore, the described circular/oval patch with a sharp, scaly edge and central clearing best fits tinea corporis.