International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by the absence of skin formation at the top of the scalp, resulting in a lack of hair?

1. Cutis aplasia

2. Neonatal acne

3. Dermatitis

4. Erythema

The correct answer is: Cutis aplasia

Cutis aplasia is correctly identified as the condition characterized by the absence of skin formation at the top of the scalp, which results in a lack of hair in that area. This condition is typically a congenital defect that occurs during embryonic development, leading to patches where skin and hair follicles do not form properly. The lack of skin can expose underlying structures, making it a significant condition to recognize and address. Neonatal acne, dermatitis, and erythema do not match this description. Neonatal acne refers to a common skin condition found in newborns, characterized by small red bumps or pimples, while dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin that can have various causes. Erythema indicates redness of the skin, usually as a result of increased blood flow to the skin's surface, and is not specifically related to skin absence or hair loss. Thus, cutis aplasia stands out due to its distinctive features linked to skin absence and hair development.