Dermatology Terms Flashcards
Describe a ‘macule’
Changes in the colour of the skin without any elevation above the surface of the surrounding skin. If this is bigger than 2cm, it is then a patch.
Describe a ‘Papule’
A circumscribed, raised lesion of epidermal or dermal origin. A papule measures 0.5-1cm in diameter.
Describe a ‘Nodule’
A circumscribed, raised lesion of epidermal or dermal origin >1cm in diameter (larger papule).
What is a ‘haemangioma’
A vascular papule or nodule
Describe a ‘Plaque’
A circumscribed, superficial, elevated plateau area 1-2cm in diameter
Describe a ‘Vesicle’
A raised lesion that contains clear fluid (a blister) <0.5cm within the epidermis or dermis below.
Describe a ‘Bullae’
A raised lesion that contains clear fluid (a blister) >0.5cm within the epidermis or dermis below.
Describe ‘Lichenification’
Hard thickening of the skin with accentuated skin markings, commonly resulting from chronic inflammation and rubbing of the skin
Describe a ‘Discoid lesion’
A ‘coin-shaped’ lesion
Describe a ‘Pustule’
A lesion containing purulent material which may be due to infection
Describe ‘atrophy’ in respect to dermatology
A loss of tissue which may affect the epidermis, dermis or subcutaneous fat.
What are some of the common features of atrophy of the skin?
- Fine wrinkles
- Loss of pigment
- Translucent appearance
- Telangiectasia (visible spider veins)
Describe ‘Ulceration’ in respects to dermatology
Loss of the whole thickness of epidermis and upper dermis. Healing of ulceration results in scarring.
Describe ‘Erosion’ in terms of dermatology
Superficial loss of epidermis which generally heals without scarring
Describe ‘Excoriation’
Partial or complete loss of the epidermis as a result of scratching
