10 year old chid has violaceous papule and pterygium of nails. The diagnosis is
## **Core Concept**
The question describes a 10-year-old child presenting with violaceous papules and pterygium of the nails. This clinical presentation suggests a diagnosis related to a systemic condition that affects the skin and nails. The violaceous papules are indicative of a specific dermatological manifestation, while pterygium of the nails refers to a condition where there is scarring and obliteration of the nail follicle, leading to the formation of a wing-like membrane.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **C. Lichen planus**, is right because lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the skin and mucous membranes. It is known for causing violaceous, polygonal, flat-topped papules. The condition can also affect the nails, leading to changes such as pterygium formation, which is a characteristic feature of lichen planus. This occurs due to scarring within the nail matrix.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option is incorrect because, without specifying the condition, it's impossible to assess its relevance. However, given the description, it's clear that the condition doesn't match lichen planus.
- **Option B:** This option is incorrect as it does not provide a recognizable condition related to the symptoms described.
- **Option D:** This option is incorrect because, similar to option A, without a specific condition, it's hard to evaluate, but it does not align with the symptoms provided.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical pearl is that lichen planus can affect multiple systems, including the skin, nails, and mucous membranes. The presence of violaceous papules and nail pterygium in a child is highly suggestive of lichen planus. A classic mnemonic for the diagnostic criteria of lichen planus is the "5 Ps": Pruritic, Purple, Polygonal, Planar papules, and Plaques.
## **Correct Answer: C. Lichen planus**