Louisiana Esthetics State Board Practice Test

What contagious disease affecting the skin should be treated by a doctor?

1. Pediculosis

2. Eczema

3. Pustules

4. Psoriasis

The correct answer is: Pediculosis

The correct answer, Pediculosis, refers specifically to an infestation of lice, which are parasites that can affect the scalp and body. This condition is contagious and can spread easily through direct contact or sharing personal items like hats and combs. The presence of lice necessitates treatment by a healthcare professional to ensure the infestation is eliminated effectively and to prevent it from spreading to others. In contrast, conditions such as eczema, pustules, and psoriasis are not typically classified as contagious diseases. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition often triggered by allergens or irritants but is not transferable between individuals. Pustules are small pus-filled blisters that can arise from various non-contagious skin conditions, while psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by skin cell overproduction that leads to scaling and inflammation. None of these conditions require medical intervention to prevent contagion, as they do not spread from person to person. Thus, while they may require treatment, they do not carry the same urgency for medical intervention as pediculosis does.