National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Cosmetology Practice Exam

What contagious skin disorder is caused by a vegetable parasite?

1. Psoriasis

2. Herpes

3. Tinea

4. Eczema

The correct answer is: Tinea

The contagious skin disorder caused by a vegetable parasite is indeed tinea, which is a fungal infection, commonly referred to as ringworm. Tinea is caused by dermatophytes, which are fungi that thrive on keratin found in the outer layer of skin, hair, and nails. These fungi spread easily through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, or combs. Understanding the nature of tinea helps differentiate it from other skin disorders. Psoriasis, for instance, is an autoimmune condition characterized by rapid skin cell turnover leading to scaling, but it is not caused by a parasite and is not contagious. Herpes is a viral infection that leads to sores, but it is not classified as a skin disorder caused by a vegetable parasite. Eczema, which is often related to allergic reactions or irritants, does not arise from a plant-based source and is also not contagious. This distinction is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment, as the approach differs significantly based on the underlying cause of the skin condition.