Which term describes an accumulation of crusts or scabs on the skin surface, or depressions in the skin surface such as ulcers?

• A. primary skin lesions
• B. furuncle
• C. secondary skin lesions
• D. tinea barbae

Answer: (C)

Understanding the types of skin lesions involves distinguishing primary from secondary changes. The description given—crusts or scabs on the skin surface and depressions in the skin such as ulcers—fits secondary skin lesions. Crusts form from dried serum, blood, or pus that coats the surface as a lesion heals or becomes irritated. Ulcers are depressions that result from tissue loss, leaving a crater-like area. Both scenarios are consequences of an initial lesion or injury, not the first sign itself, which is why they’re classified as secondary. In contrast, primary lesions are the initial appearances like a macule, papule, vesicle, pustule, or wheal.