Oregon Written Tattoo Practice Test

What is a defining characteristic of a primary lesion in dermatology?

1. It appears after a skin injury

2. It is present at birth

3. It is the immediate response of the skin to a stimulus

4. It alters the texture and color of the skin

The correct answer is: It alters the texture and color of the skin

The defining characteristic of a primary lesion in dermatology relates to the direct alteration of the skin caused by disease or other factors, distinguishing it from secondary lesions which are a result of further changes to primary lesions. Primary lesions can indeed alter the texture and color of the skin, thereby serving as an initial sign of a dermatological condition. This is crucial in dermatology for diagnosis, as these alterations can indicate a variety of underlying health issues or skin disorders. For example, a macule (a flat, colored spot), a papule (a raised bump), or plaques (elevated, often scaly areas) are all examples of primary lesions that can change the skin's appearance directly, without the need for a previous injury or other alterations. Therefore, this option highlights the essence of what constitutes a primary lesion: it is a direct manifestation of skin pathology rather than a change that occurs over time or as a consequence of external factors.