The presence of a target lesion on the skin is characteristic of which condition?

• A. Erythema multiforme
• B. Urticaria
• C. Psoriasis
• D. Rosacea

Answer: (A)

Target lesions—concentric rings with a central darker area—are classic for erythema multiforme. These iris or bull’s-eye lesions often appear on the hands and feet and can involve mucous membranes in the more severe form. They typically reflect a hypersensitivity reaction, most commonly triggered by herpes simplex infection or certain drugs. In contrast, urticaria consists of transient, itchy wheals that move and resolve within a day or so, without fixed multi-ring targets. Psoriasis presents as well-demarcated red plaques with silvery scales, not iris lesions. Rosacea features facial flushing with papules, pustules, and visible blood vessels rather than target lesions. Therefore, the presence of target lesions points to erythema multiforme.