Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

In addition to the acute signs of mononucleosis, which of the following could also lead to signs like petechiae?

1. Trauma

2. Allergic reaction

3. Normal fatigue

4. Autoimmune disorders

The correct answer is: Trauma

The presence of petechiae, which are small, pinpoint hemorrhages that can appear on the skin or mucous membranes, is often associated with conditions that affect the blood’s ability to clot or impair the vascular system. Trauma can directly cause petechiae as a result of damage to the capillaries. When trauma occurs, even in cases of minor injuries, small blood vessels may break, leading to localized bleeding under the skin, resulting in petechiae. In contrast, allergic reactions may cause other skin manifestations, such as hives or swelling, but do not typically result in petechiae. Normal fatigue is not a condition that would cause petechiae, as it doesn't involve vascular or hematological alterations. Autoimmune disorders can lead to various symptoms, including issues related to coagulation, but they would usually be accompanied by a broader range of clinical findings and are not as immediate or localized as petechiae resulting from acute trauma. Therefore, trauma is the most direct and relevant cause among the options provided for the appearance of petechiae.