Common Skin Lesions and What They Look Like

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 3, 2024

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You know, skin lesions come in all shapes and sizes, and doctors use special terms to classify them. They consider factors like the type of lesion, its shape, texture, location, distribution, and color. While the word "rash" is a common way to describe skin issues, it's not detailed enough for a proper diagnosis. In fact, the specific features of a rash can give doctors important clues about what's causing it.

Macules

First off, let's talk about macules. These are small skin spots, usually less than 10 millimeters wide. Typically, they don't change the thickness or texture of the skin. You'll find macules in conditions like rubella and measles, but they can also be harmless, like freckles and moles. Moreover, some chronic conditions feature macules too; for instance, the light patches in vitiligo are macules as well.

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Papules

Moving on, papules are another type of skin lesion. These are raised bumps that are usually less than 10 millimeters in size. Common examples include insect bites, warts, and certain types of acne. When papules are firm and extend deeper into the skin, they are called nodules. Some nodules are linked to chronic conditions like reactive arthritis and dermatomyositis, which is an inflammatory disease.

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Plaques

Next up are plaques, which are larger lesions over 10 millimeters in diameter. They can be raised above or sunken below the skin's surface. Psoriasis is the most common condition involving plaques, but other chronic diseases can cause them too. For example, sarcoidosis can produce red or purple plaques in about a quarter of patients. Additionally, lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disorder, often leads to scarring plaques on sun-exposed parts of the body.

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Vesicles and Bullae

Let's not forget about vesicles and bullae, which are types of blisters filled with clear fluid. Vesicles are small, less than 0.5 millimeters, and often show up in conditions like herpes infections and allergic contact dermatitis. Bullae are larger blisters and can result from burns, insect bites, or contact with irritating substances or allergens.

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Pustules

Now, pustules are small, pus-filled lesions that look like tiny blisters. You'll often see them in acne and folliculitis, which is an infection or inflammation of hair follicles. Pustules can pop up anywhere but are most common on the face, back, shoulders, and other sweaty areas. Since they may signal an infection, it's a good idea to have them examined by a doctor—better safe than sorry.

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Urticaria

Also known as hives or wheals, urticaria are raised skin lesions caused by localized swelling. They're a common allergic reaction and are usually red and itchy. Urticaria typically lasts around 24 hours. The wheals can vary in size and symptoms but generally become less red and itchy as the allergic response subsides.

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Ulcers

Ulcers are deep lesions resulting from damage to the skin's outer and inner layers—the epidermis and dermis. They can be caused by infections, poor blood circulation from peripheral artery disease, or physical trauma. Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are severe types that often develop in people who are immobile. Constant pressure on areas like the heels, tailbone, and back of the head can lead to skin breakdown and ulcer formation over time.

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Petechiae

Petechiae are tiny red, brown, or blue spots caused by bleeding under the skin due to broken blood vessels. They can be a sign of a serious health issue. Common causes include injuries, infections, and low platelet counts. People on blood thinners often develop petechiae, and they can be a symptom of serious conditions like leukemia or septicemia. However, sometimes they're harmless and temporary, like when suction causes them.

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Configuration and Texture

The shape and feel of skin lesions are crucial for diagnosis. For example, linear lesions often result from contact dermatitis or injury. Ring-shaped lesions typically point to ringworm, a fungal infection. Lesions that branch or curve might indicate a fungal or parasitic infection, while those with a central indentation are usually viral in nature.

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