A skin lesion is a part of the skin that has an abnormal growth or appearance compared to the skin around it. Show Two categories of skin lesions exist: primary and secondary. Primary skin lesions are abnormal skin conditions present at birth or acquired over a person’s lifetime. Secondary skin lesions are the result of irritated or manipulated primary skin lesions. For example, if someone scratches a mole until it bleeds, the resulting lesion, a crust, is now a secondary skin lesion. Many conditions can cause different types of skin lesions. Here are 21 possible causes and types. Warning: Graphic images ahead. Acne
Read the full article on acne. Cold sores
Read the full article on cold sores. Actinic keratosis
Read the full article on actinic keratosis. Allergic eczema
Read the full article on allergic eczema. Impetigo
Read the full article on impetigo. Contact dermatitis
Read the full article on contact dermatitis. Psoriasis
Read the full article on psoriasis. Chickenpox
Read the full article on chickenpox. Shingles
Read the full article on shingles. Epidermoid cysts
Read the full article on epidermoid cysts. MRSA (staph) infectionThis condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.
Read the full article on MRSA infection. CellulitisThis condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.
Read the full article on cellulitis. Scabies
Read the full article on scabies. Boils
Read the full article on boils. Bullae
Read the full article on bullae. Blisters
Read the full article on blisters. Nodules
Read the full article on nodules. RashThis condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.
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Read the full article on hives. Keloids
Read the full article on keloids. Warts
Read the full article on warts. The most common cause of a skin lesion is an infection on or in the skin. One example is a wart. The human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes warts, is passed from one person to another through direct skin-to-skin contact. The herpes simplex virus, which causes both cold sores and genital herpes, is also passed through direct contact. A systemic infection, which is an infection that occurs throughout your body, can cause skin lesions all over your body. Examples include chickenpox and shingles. MRSA and cellulitis are two potentially life threatening infections that involve skin lesions. Some skin lesions, such as moles and freckles, are hereditary. Birthmarks are lesions that exist at the time of birth. Others can be the result of an allergic reaction, such as allergic eczema and contact dermatitis. Some conditions, such as poor circulation or diabetes, cause skin sensitivity that can lead to lesions. Birthmarks are primary skin lesions, as are moles and acne. Other types include the following. BlistersBlisters are skin lesions filled with a clear fluid. Small blisters measuring less than 1 cm in size are also called vesicles. Larger blisters are called bullae or, simply, blisters. These lesions can be the result of:
MaculesMacules are small spots that are typically brown, red, or white. They’re usually about 1 cm in diameter. Examples include freckles and flat moles. NodulesA nodule is a term used to describe growths that occur under the skin, such as certain types of cysts. Nodules are typically under 2 cm. If the nodule becomes big enough, it can affect the overlying skin too. PapulesA papule is a raised lesion, and most of them develop with many other papules. A patch of papules or nodules is called a plaque. Plaques are common in people with psoriasis. PustulesPustules are small lesions filled with pus. They’re typically the result of acne, boils, or impetigo. RashesRashes are lesions that cover small or large areas of skin. They can be caused by an allergic reaction. A common allergic reaction rash occurs when a person touches poison ivy. WhealsA wheal is a skin lesion caused by an allergic reaction. Hives are an example of wheals. When primary skin lesions are irritated, they can develop into secondary skin lesions. The most common secondary skin lesions include: CrustsA crust, or a scab, is created when dried blood forms over a scratched and irritated skin lesion. ScalesScales, such as those caused by actinic keratosis, are patches of skin cells that build up and then flake off the skin. ScarsSome scratches, cuts, and scrapes will leave scars that aren’t replaced with healthy, normal skin. Instead, the skin returns as a thick, raised scar. This scar is called a keloid. Skin atrophySkin atrophy occurs when areas of your skin become thin and wrinkled from poor circulation or overuse of topical steroids. UlcersUlcers are typically caused by a bacterial infection or physical trauma. They’re often accompanied by poor circulation. Some skin lesions are hereditary. People with family members who have moles or freckles are more likely to develop those two types of lesions. People with allergies may also be more likely to develop skin lesions related to their allergy. People diagnosed with an autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis will continue to be at risk of developing skin lesions throughout their lives. In order to diagnose a skin lesion, a dermatologist or doctor will conduct a full physical exam. This will include observing the skin lesion and asking for a full account of all symptoms. To confirm a diagnosis, they make take skin samples, perform a biopsy of the affected area, or take a swab from the lesion to send to a lab. If you don’t already have a dermatologist, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool. Treatment is based on the underlying cause or causes of the skin lesions. A doctor will take into account the type of lesion, your personal health history, and any treatments previously attempted. MedicationsFirst-line treatments are often topical medications to help treat the inflammation and protect the affected area. Topical medication can also provide mild symptom relief to stop pain, itching, or burning caused by the skin lesion. If your skin lesions are the result of a systemic infection, such as chickenpox or shingles, you may be prescribed oral medications to help ease the symptoms of the disease, including skin lesions. SurgeryInfected skin lesions are typically pierced and drained to provide treatment and relief. Suspicious-looking moles that have been changing over time may need to be removed surgically. A type of birthmark called hemangioma results from malformed blood vessels. Laser surgery is often used to remove this type of birthmark. Home careSome skin lesions are very itchy and uncomfortable. You may want to try home remedies for relief. Oatmeal baths or lotions can provide relief from itching or burning caused by certain skin lesions. If chafing is causing contact dermatitis in places where the skin rubs against itself or a piece of clothing, absorbent powders or protective balms can reduce friction and prevent additional skin lesions from developing. Read this article in Spanish. What are examples of primary skin lesion?What are the different types of primary skin lesions?. Birthmarks are primary skin lesions, as are moles and acne. ... . Blisters are skin lesions filled with a clear fluid. ... . Macules are small spots that are typically brown, red, or white.. Which are examples of primary skin lesions quizlet?Examples: freckles, flat moles, petechiae, rubella, vitiligo, port wine stains, and ecchymosis. Elevated, palpable, solid mass; circumscribed border.
What are the two types of skin lesions?Skin lesions can be divided into two main types: primary and secondary. Primary skin lesions originate on previously healthy skin and are directly associated with a specific cause. Common examples of primary skin lesions include freckles, moles, and blisters, among others.
What are the 10 primary lesions?Learn the 10 primary skin lesions, which include macule, papule, nodule, plaque, tumor, vesicle, pustule, bulla, wheal, and burrow. Skin lesions are relatively common and frequently arise due to localized skin injury. Primary skin lesions are color or texture alterations that occur at birth or develop over time.
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