Pathology · single question

Janeway lesions (non-tender erythematous macules on the palms and soles) are characteristic of which disease?

  1. Pulmonary embolism
  2. Infective endocarditis
  3. Septic shock
  4. Rheumatic fever
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Correct answer: B. Infective endocarditis

Janeway lesions are small (1-4 mm), flat, painless, erythematous hemorrhagic macules or nodules found on the palms and soles. They are pathognomonic signs of infective endocarditis (IE), caused by septic emboli lodging in the small blood vessels. Other peripheral signs of IE include Osler's nodes (painful raised nodules on fingertips), Roth spots (retinal hemorrhages), splinter hemorrhages under the nails, and clubbing. Janeway lesions are specifically associated with acute IE (often Staphylococcus aureus), while Osler's nodes are more common in subacute IE.

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