A doctor may ask you to describe your dermatological condition and its location. Here are some of the more common terms that may help you in providing a more accurate description:
Atrophic | Thin, wrinkled |
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Blister or vessicle | Fluid-filled bump |
Crust or scab | Formation of dried blood, plasma, or other skin fluid over a break in the skin |
Cyst | Deeply seated sac that contains material |
Excoriation | A scratch or erosion caused by scratching |
Hives or wheals | Pink or white localized swelling of the skin that is usually itchy |
Lichenification | Skin that has become thickened, hardened, or leathery from chronic scratching |
Macule | Flat, discolored spot |
Nodule or papule | Solid, raised bumps. A nodule is greater than 0.5 cm and a papule is less than or equal to 0.5 cm. |
Raised bumps | Bumps that stick out above the skin surface |
Patch | Flat, large discolored spot with smooth surface |
Pustule (pimple) | Inflamed, elevated lesions that appear to contain pus |
Scales | A buildup of dead skin cells that form flakes |
Scar | Fibrous tissue that forms after a skin injury |
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Online Resources of Dermatology