Massachusetts State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

Which skin condition could be produced by poison ivy or poison oak?

1. A Bulla

2. A Wheal

3. A Tubercle

4. A Papule

The correct answer is: A Wheal

The correct answer is a wheal, which is a raised, itchy area of skin that may be a sign of an allergic reaction. Poison ivy and poison oak contain an oil called urushiol, which can trigger allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. This reaction often leads to the development of wheals, characterized by localized swelling and redness, as well as intense itching. While other skin conditions, such as papules, bullae, and tubercles, can be associated with various skin reactions, they are not the typical presentations in response to exposure to poison ivy or oak. A papule is a small, raised bump that does not always have the same itchy, swollen characteristics as wheals. Bullae are larger blisters that can form with severe reactions but are less common in typical cases of poison ivy or oak reactions. A tubercle is a small, rounded mass that is more commonly related to chronic skin conditions or infections. Therefore, the wheal is specifically associated with the immediate hypersensitivity reactions to allergens like poison ivy and poison oak, making it the most accurate choice for this question.