Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

A 40-year-old female with a rash on her face, a history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is suspected to have which condition?

1. Atopic dermatitis

2. Thyroid disease

3. Lupus erythematosus

4. Rosacea

The correct answer is: Lupus erythematosus

The presence of a rash on the face, combined with a history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, strongly suggests the possibility of lupus erythematosus. This autoimmune disease is characterized by a variety of symptoms, including a distinctive facial rash known as a "butterfly rash," which typically appears across the cheeks and nose. Additionally, individuals with one autoimmune condition, like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, are at increased risk for developing other autoimmune diseases, including lupus. In this scenario, the patient's facial rash might be indicating not only a skin condition but also an underlying systemic issue associated with autoimmune processes. Recognizing the connections between autoimmune diseases is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This clinical reasoning helps to correctly identify lupus erythematosus as a plausible diagnosis in this context.