“Satellite lesions” are seen in
**Core Concept**
Satellite lesions are a characteristic feature of certain dermatological conditions, representing smaller, secondary lesions that occur around a primary lesion. This phenomenon is often seen in cutaneous conditions with a propensity for spreading or metastasizing.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Satellite lesions are commonly observed in melanoma, a type of skin cancer. These lesions arise from malignant cells that have broken away from the primary tumor and migrated to adjacent areas. The exact mechanism of satellite lesion formation is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the hematogenous spread of tumor cells. The presence of satellite lesions in melanoma is an indication of tumor progression and can impact the prognosis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Satellite lesions are not typically seen in psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by thick, scaly plaques.
* **Option B:** While satellite lesions can be observed in some types of skin infections, such as impetigo, this is not the primary condition associated with this phenomenon.
* **Option C:** Satellite lesions are not a characteristic feature of warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and typically present as solitary, benign growths.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember that the presence of satellite lesions in a skin lesion is a red flag for malignancy, particularly melanoma, and warrants further investigation.
**Correct Answer: C. Melanoma.**