Skin Lesion

What is a Skin Lesion? A skin lesion is an area of skin that differs from the surrounding tissue. Lesions can range from benign formations like moles and freckles to malignant ones like skin cancers. Skin lesions may appear due to various factors, including injury, infections, genetics, or underlying medical conditions.

Types of Skin Lesions

Skin lesions are broadly categorized into primary and secondary types:

 

  • Primary Lesions are initial manifestations on the skin and include formations like acne, birthmarks, and insect bites.
  • Secondary Lesions are modifications to primary lesions, often resulting from external factors like itching or injury. Examples include scabs and scars.

Causes and Symptoms

There are many possible causes for the formation of skin lesions. Generally, factors include:

 

  • Innate Factors: Present at birth, such as moles and birthmarks.
  • Infections: Viral or bacterial infections, including HIV, HPV, and staphylococcus.
  • Environmental Triggers: Allergic reactions to external or internal triggers. 

 

General symptoms include:

 

  • Abnormal growth or appearance
  •  Itchiness
  • Swelling
  • Pain or discomfort

Treatment Approaches

Treatment is tailored to the type of lesion and may include:

 

  • Primary Lesions: Often treated with topical applications or oral medications, some may require surgical removal.
  • Secondary Lesions: Treatment involves managing the underlying condition causing the lesion.
  • Malignant Lesions: Typically necessitate surgical excision, sometimes in conjunction with other therapies.

Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24296-skin-lesions