Lesion terminology Flashcards
What is an abscess?
A localized collection of purulent exudate
Abscesses are often caused by infection and can occur in various parts of the body.
Define bulla.
Fluid-filled elevated lesion greater than 5mm in diameter
Bullae can occur in conditions such as blistering disorders.
What is ecchymosis?
Red/purple macular area of submucosal hemorrhage/ extravasated blood
Ecchymosis is often referred to as bruising.
What does endophytic mean?
A lesion that is growing inwards into the underlying tissue
Endophytic lesions can be indicative of certain types of tumors.
What is erosion in a medical context?
Partial loss of the surface epithelium not extending through the full thickness
Erosions are common in various dermatological conditions.
Define erythema.
Redness of the mucosa usually caused by inflammation, atrophy of capillary dilatation
Erythema can be a sign of infection or allergic reactions.
What is a fissure?
Linear slit or groove in the skin or mucosa
Fissures can occur in various conditions including cracks in the skin.
What is a fistula?
Abnormal tract connecting two body cavities or connecting a body cavity to the body surface permitting passage of fluid and secretions including pus
Fistulas can result from infections, surgeries, or inflammatory diseases.
What does fixed mean in relation to lesions?
A lesion that is firmly attached to the overlying or underlying structures
Fixed lesions may require different treatment approaches compared to mobile lesions.
Define hematoma.
A localized swelling filled with blood
Hematomas can occur due to trauma or surgery.
What does indurated mean?
Hardening of soft tissue usually due to chronic inflammation or malignancy
Induration can be a sign of underlying disease processes.
What is a macule?
Circumscribed discolored flat lesion not raised above level of surrounding mucosa
Macules can be seen in various skin conditions.
Define mass in a medical context.
Circumscribed elevated solid lesion more than 2cm in diameter ‘tumor-like’
Masses can be benign or malignant and often require further investigation.
What does mobile mean when describing a lesion?
A lesion that is freely movable and not attached to the overlying or underlying structures
Mobility can affect treatment options and prognosis.
Define nodule.
Circumscribed elevated solid lesion more than 5mm in diameter, but less than 2cm
Nodules can be found in various tissues and may indicate different conditions.
What is a papillary lesion?
A lesion that has numerous surface projections
Papillary lesions can be seen in various neoplastic processes.
What is a papule?
Circumscribed elevated solid lesion less than 5mm in diameter
Papules can be found in conditions like acne or dermatitis.
Define pedunculated.
Exophytic lesion whose base is narrower than the widest part of the lesion
Pedunculated lesions may resemble growths such as polyps.
What are petechiae?
Pin-point red or purple spots caused by submucosal hemorrhage
Petechiae can indicate various medical conditions, including clotting disorders.
Define plaque in a medical context.
Slightly elevated area of mucosa with a flat surface
Plaques can be seen in conditions like psoriasis.
What is a pustule?
Circumscribed raised lesion containing pus
Pustules are often associated with infections or inflammatory skin conditions.
What does reticular mean?
Resembling a net
Reticular patterns can be observed in various dermatological conditions.
Define sessile.
Exophytic lesion whose base is the widest part of the lesion
Sessile lesions are often easier to identify in clinical examinations.
