Skin lesions are defined as abnormal sores, bumps, ulcers, or discolored areas of the skin. This damage to the skin may be caused by diverse conditions which may produce lesions of various severity. Common instances of skin lesions include:
- Acne: Acne is caused by clogged pores in the skin, resulting in painful, red bumps that protrude from the skin. Acne is extremely common, especially in young adults going through puberty. Even though the symptoms of acne are usually mild, breakouts can leave scarring on the skin if left untreated.
- Blisters: Blisters may occur anywhere on the body, caused by friction, heat, or trauma (such as pinching). These lesions appear as fluid-filled sacs that may burst and ooze clear fluid. If the blister has become infected, the clear fluid inside the lesion may be whitish or yellow pus.
- Cold sores: Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, and appear as small, painful blisters around the mouth. Cold sores can be passed from person to person through close contact. These lesions will go away after a few weeks but may recur suddenly without a specific trigger.
- Cysts: Epidermoid cysts (skin cysts) are non-cancerous red bumps that commonly occur on the face, neck, and torso. These bumps develop slowly and rarely cause any pain or complications. Most people seek to treat cysts because their appearance is bothersome, or the lesion has become infected.
- Actinic keratosis: These lesions appear as discolored, rough patches of skin that develop over time from sun exposure. While actinic keratosis is not dangerous in and of itself, it can dramatically increase your risk of skin cancer if left untreated.
- Nodules: Nodules are growths of abnormal tissue that develop under the skin. These lesions feel like hard lumps under the skin that commonly develop in the armpits, the groin, and the neck region. Nodules produce various symptoms, depending on the part of the body where they occur. For instance, a nodule in the neck can cause difficulty or pain while swallowing. If you suspect that you may have a nodule, seek medical attention. While some nodules are harmless, a nodule in the neck or armpit may signify the presence of thyroid conditions or lymphatic cancer.
Skin lesions are commonly caused by an infection or trauma (such as a burn or pinch). Not all skin lesions are signs of an underlying condition, but it is important to have any abnormalities in the skin examined by a health care provider to be sure. Some lesions, such as nodules or keratosis can lead to or signify certain cancers and should be diagnosed as soon as possible to begin treatment.
Most appointments for skin conditions will include a visual and physical examination of the condition. If further testing is needed, your doctor may recommend a biopsy from the affected area, or take a swab from the lesion for lab tests. Treatment for a skin lesion will depend on the cause of the lesion, and the severity of the condition.