Skin Secondary Lesions

Atrophy

Atrophy

localized shrinking of the skin which results in paper-thin, wrinkled skin with easily
visible vessels. Results from loss of epidermis, dermis or both. Dermal atrophy manifests as a
depression in the skin which can occur secondary to intralesional steroid injections.
Epidermal atrophy manifests as thin almost transparent skin; may not retain normal skin lines
which can occur secondary to topical steroid use.

Crust

occurs from dried exudate overlying and impaired epidermis. The exudate can be
composed of blood, serum, or pus. e.g impetigo, epidermolysis bullosa.

Erosion

intraepithelial loss of epidermis, usually heals without scarring, moist, circumscribed,
usually depressed lesion due to loss of all or part of the epidermis e.g. herpes simplex.

Fissure

linear, often painful breaks within the skin surface, as a result of excessive xerosis
(dryness of skin)