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This quiz will test your diagnostic skills in diagnosing lesions on the ear.
Accurate diagnosis of lesions on the ear requires a careful history, thorough skin examination in a good light, and sometimes a biopsy. Inflammatory and neoplastic conditions may appear similar, often presenting as scaly or ulcerated plaques or nodules.
For each of the ten cases, study the image(s) and then answer the questions. You can click on the image to view a larger version if required.
Each case should take approximately 2 minutes to complete. There is a list of suggested further reading material at the end of the quiz.
When you finish the quiz, you can download a certificate.
Make a diagnosis
Invasive squamous cell carcinoma
Outline the clinical features
SCC presents as an enlarging tender nodule, with varying amount of scale depending on how well differentiated it is. It usually arises within actinic keratosis or SCC in situ. Large size and ulceration are poor prognostic features; lesions on the ear are prone to metastasise.
What are the treatment options?
Invasive SCC should be completely excised. Well-differentiated lesions may be removed by shave, curette and electrosurgery.