A lesion is any area of tissue that has been damaged or has changed from its normal appearance.
Lesions may result from injury, infection, inflammation, congenital conditions, or disease. They can occur anywhere in the body and vary in size, shape, colour, and severity.
In dermatology, a lesion refers to any abnormal area of skin, including a rash, papule, blister, ulcer, or mole.
The term itself does not indicate whether something is benign, malignant, infectious, inflammatory, or otherwise harmful.
QUICK FACT
“Lesion” is a general medical term. It does not indicate a specific disease.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Tumor: an abnormal mass caused by excessive or unregulated cell growth; tumors are one possible type of lesion.
- Disease: a broader condition affecting normal structure or function.
SEE ALSO