Module 6: Skin & Lesion Assessment Flashcards
What are primary and secondary skin lesions?
Primary = develop on previously intact skin Secondary = occur when the lesion changes due to time, infection or picking/scratching/rubbing
Describe a macule and patch. Primary or secondary?
Macule = Circular flat discolouration, smaller than 1cm. Ex. Freckle
Patch = macule bigger than 1 cm. Ex. Measles, Mongolian spots or vitiligo
Primary
Describe a papule
Solid, elevated, <1 cm in diameter. Ex. A mole (elevated Nevus) or wart
Primary
Describe a plaque
Papules that group to form a surface elevation wider than 1 cm. Disk shaped. Ex. Psoriasis
Primary
Describe a nodule
Solid, elevated, hard or soft > 1 cm in diameter. Ex fibroma
Primary
Describe traits of a tumour
Larger than a few centimetres in diameter, firm or soft, deeper into dermis
Primary
Describe a wheal
Superficial, raised, transient and erythematous. Irregular shape due to Edema. Example mosquito bite, allergic reaction. *wheals that coalesce (come together to form one mass or whole) to form extensive reaction = urticaria/hives
- Primary
Describe a vesicle
A blister. Elevated cavity containing free fluid up to 1 cm
Primary
Describe a pustule
Cavity filled with turbid fluid (pus) and elevated. Example acne
Primary
Describe a cyst. Primary or secondary?
Encapsulated fluid filled cavity in dermis or subcutaneous layer, tensely elevating skin
Primary
Describe a crust lesion
Thick and dried out exudate after vesicles/pustules burst and dry up. Example scab after abrasion
Describe a scale lesion
Flakes of skin, dry or greasy, silvery or white. Example psoriasis or eczema
Describe a fissure lesion
Linear crack with abrupt edges, extending into dermis. Example cracks at side of mouth, or athletes foot
Describe erosion
Scooped out but shallow depression, superficial, no bleeding. Example area after blister has popped
Describe excoriation
Self-inflicted abrasion. Example lesions after scratching an area
