Pathology · single question
A patient complains of slow mental state, depression, and has white frost-like deposits on the face, trunk, and extremities. What systemic condition is most likely?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. End-stage renal disease (ESRD)
End-stage renal disease = uremic frost (urea crystals deposited on skin as kidneys fail to excrete urea) + uremic encephalopathy (slow mental state/depression). Other features: pallor, pruritus, metallic taste. Source confirms: 'a) End-stage renal disease.'
- A. SLE = malar rash, photosensitivity, joint pain — not white frost deposits.
- B. Addison disease = HYPERPIGMENTATION (not white frost) + hypotension + electrolyte imbalances.
- C. Hepatitis B = jaundice, fatigue, nausea — no skin frost.
- D. CORRECT. ESRD = uremic frost (white crystalline deposits) + uremic encephalopathy. Classic presentation.