MCQ – 35981

Correct Answer � D Explanation

A i.e. Verrucae; C i.e. M. marinum infection

Skin hazards of swimming:

Swimmer’s xerosis: Swimmer’s xerosis, or dry skin, is common among swimmers. Dilution and melting of the natural protective skin sebum leads to moisture loss from the stratum corneum, which results in a dry, scaly, itchy skin.1 Xerosis is exacerbated by the long hot showers that swimmers are notorious for taking, as well as by long soaks in Jacuzzis and hot tubs.

Hot-tub folliculitis: Caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, this infection can occur in outbreaks among people using hot tubs and whirlpools. The submerged parts of the skin develop follicular erythematous papules and pustules, and the symptoms of this self-limited condition usually last from 7 to 10 days. Pseudomonas hot foot syndrome manifests with tender nodules on the soles of children’s feet after using a wading pool.

Swimming pool granuloma: Also known as fish tank granuloma, this condition results from exposure to Mycobacterium marinum, an atypical mycobacterium found in fresh or salt water and in home aquariums. Patients typically present with indurated red to hyperpigmented papules or nodules on the knees, elbows or dorsal surface of the hands and feet. These may subsequently ulcerate. Symptoms are often quite minimal, but localized pain and pruritis can occur.

Swimmer’s itch or cercarial dermatitis: This allergic reaction to fresh-water schistosome (flatworm) larva presents with an itchy, transient erythematous eruption. After the swimmer exits the water, pruritic erythematous macules and papules develop on parts of the body that were immersed, and these resolve within several days.