These are some of dermatological terms that are frequently used by dermatologist. Some might be a little bit too complicated but it is no doubt very useful when discussing your skin problem with your dermatologist.
Atrophy = loss of tissue may affect the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous fat. Thinning of the epidermis is characterized by loss of the normal skin markings. There may be fine wrinkle, loss of pigment and a translucent appearance. There may be other changes as well such as sclerosis of the underlying connective tissue, telangiectasia or evidence of diminished blood supply.
Annular lesions = ring shaped lesions
Erosion = Superficial loss of epidermis that generally heals without scarring
Excoriation = Partial or complete loss of epidermis as a result of scratching
Fissures = slits through the whole thickness of the skin
Lichenification = Hard thickening of the skin and accentuated skin markings. This is most often seen in eczema patients after prolonged rubbing of the skin.
Macule = derived from Latin word, means ‘stain’. It describes the changes in color or consistency of the skin without any elevation of the lesion from the surface or surrounding skin. There may be in increase of melanin that gives the black or blue discoloration depending on the depth of the pigment. White macule means no melanin. Vascular dilatation and inflammation will produce erythema or redness of the skin.
Nodule = similar to a papule but over 1cm diameter
Nummular = coin like lesion. There is no hard and fast distinction from discoid lesions, which are flat disc like lesions of variable size. Most of the time it is used to described eczematous lesion.
Papule = circumscribed, raised lesion conventionally less than 1cm in diameter. May be due to either epidermal or dermal changes
Plaque = It is a skin lesion like a ‘plaque’ that stuck on the skin wall with a large relative to its height and well defined edge. It is most commonly seen on psoriasis.
Pustules = Skin lesion containing purulent material – may be seen in infection.
Reticulate = means ‘net like’. Most commonly seen when the patterns of subcutaneous blood vessels become visible.
Ulcer = loss of the whole thickness of the epidermis and upper dermis. Healing process will results in a scar.
Vesicles and bulla= Raised lesions contain fluid. A bulla is a vesicle >0.5cm, superficial within the epidermis or situated in the dermis below it.
Reference:
1. ABC of Dermatology Hot Climate Edition. P K Buxton. BMJ Books. 1999.
