Skin Lesions and Their Characteristics

These flashcards cover the vocabulary related to various types of skin lesions and their characteristics, as well as classifications of how they may appear.

Macule

A flat, nonpalpable change in skin color, usually smaller than 1 cm.

Papule

A palpable solid raised lesion less than 1 cm in diameter.

Nodule

A solid elevated lesion larger and deeper than a papule.

Scale

Dry exfoliation of dead epidermis that may result from inflammatory changes.

Crust

A scab formed by dry serum, pus, or blood.

Excoriation

Traumatized abrasions of the epidermis or linear scratch marks.

Vesicle

A small, blisterlike raised area of skin containing serous fluid, up to 1 cm in diameter.

Bulla

A fluid-filled vesicle or blister larger than 1 cm.

Fissure

A slit or cracklike sore extending into the dermis, usually from continuous inflammation.

Ulcer

An open sore or lesion extending to the dermis.

Pustule

Small elevation of skin containing lymph or pus.

Lichenification

Thickening and hardening of skin from continued irritation.

Wheal

Round, transient elevation of the skin caused by dermal edema.

Plaque

A patch or solid, raised lesion greater than 1 cm in diameter.

Cyst

A closed sac or pouch consisting of semisolid, solid, or liquid material.

Scar

A mark left in the skin due to fibrotic changes following healing of a wound.

Grouped Lesions

Lesions that are clustered together.

Confluent Lesions

Lesions that merge so that discrete lesions are not visible.

Linear Lesions

Lesions that form a line.

Annular Lesions

Lesions arranged in a single ring or circle.

Polycyclic Lesions

Lesions arranged in concentric circles.

Arciform Lesions

Lesions that form arcs or curves.

Reticular Lesions

Lesions that form a meshlike network.