Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What are corns?

1. Lesions found on the heel

2. Hyperkeratotic lesions typically found on toes

3. Inflammatory conditions of the foot

4. Muscle contractions in the toes

The correct answer is: Hyperkeratotic lesions typically found on toes

Corns are hyperkeratotic lesions that typically develop on the tops or sides of the toes due to repeated friction and pressure. They are a response of the skin to safeguard underlying tissues from injury and are characterized by a thickened layer of skin. This thickening is a result of the accumulation of dead skin cells, and it can cause discomfort or pain, particularly when wearing certain types of footwear. The other options describe different types of conditions or issues that do not accurately represent what corns are. For instance, lesions found on the heel would refer to a separate condition, such as calluses or heel spurs. Inflammatory conditions of the foot relate more to issues like plantar fasciitis or arthritis and are not specific to corns. Muscle contractions in the toes might describe conditions such as hammertoes or claw toes, but again, they don't encompass the definition or characteristics of corns. Thus, option B is the correct choice, highlighting the nature of corns as hyperkeratotic lesions on the toes.