Indiana State Barber Practice Exam

Which symptom is a common indication of a skin infection?

1. Dryness

2. Redness, swelling, and pus

3. Itching and flaking

4. Loss of hair

The correct answer is: Redness, swelling, and pus

The presence of redness, swelling, and pus is a distinctive symptom often associated with skin infections. These manifestations arise due to the body’s immune response to infection, where blood flow increases to the affected area, leading to redness and swelling. The accumulation of pus indicates that there is an infection caused by bacteria or other pathogens, which the body is fighting off. This combination of symptoms provides a clear indication that an infection may be present, warranting further attention and possibly medical intervention. In contrast, the other symptoms listed, such as dryness, itching and flaking, or loss of hair, can indicate various skin conditions but do not specifically point to an infection. Dryness might suggest dehydrated skin, while itching and flaking could imply conditions such as eczema or dermatitis. Loss of hair may stem from numerous factors, including stress or hormonal changes, but it does not inherently signify an infection. Thus, the combination of redness, swelling, and pus is the hallmark indication of a skin infection.