Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What are the characteristics of basal cell carcinoma?

1. Red, inflamed skin with no nodules

2. Pink or red nodules with ulcerative lesions

3. Fleshy moles that do not change

4. Dark, scaly patches with smooth edges

The correct answer is: Pink or red nodules with ulcerative lesions

Basal cell carcinoma is typically characterized by pink or red nodules, often with a shiny appearance. These nodules may also present with ulcerative lesions, which can appear as open sores or areas that have not healed properly. This type of skin cancer originates in the basal cells of the epidermis and is known for its slow growth and tendency to invade surrounding tissues, although it rarely metastasizes to other parts of the body. In contrast, the other options describe different skin conditions or characteristics that are not typical of basal cell carcinoma. For instance, red, inflamed skin without nodules might indicate an inflammatory condition rather than a neoplasm. Fleshy moles that do not change could relate to benign skin lesions such as dermatofibromas or nevi, rather than a malignant tumor. Finally, dark, scaly patches with smooth edges are more suggestive of conditions like squamous cell carcinoma or actinic keratosis, rather than basal cell carcinoma. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.