Small Animal Dermatology, 3rd edition

14 BASICS

Erosion: defect in the skin that does not penetrate the dermal-epidermal junction

(Figure 2.22)

Ulcer: defect in the skin that penetrates the dermal-epidermal junction (Figure

2.23)

Fissure: linear defect penetrating the epidermis to the dermis (Figure 2.24)

Fistula: deep lesion with a draining site (Figure 2.25)

Scar: area of fibrous tissue that has replaced normal skin; often palpates as a

thinned or depressed defect (Figure 2.26).

COMMENTS

 Examination findings should be recorded in an organized and consistent manner;

descriptions should provide a clear “picture” of the previous dermatologic condition

during subsequent examinations.

 Findings should be organized from the “larger” to the “smaller” picture.

 Identifying specific lesions correctly and understanding how they develop provide

invaluable pathophysiologic information.

 Many dermatoses have pathognomonic appearances that, when correlated with sig-

nalment and history, can provide an appropriate and limited differential diagnosis

list.

 Alternatively, many dermatoses share similar physical findings; an accurate record of

descriptions may permit the clinician to develop a concise plan for the diagnosis and

treatment of patients with dermatologic disease.

Fig. 2.1.Scale – coarse accumulation of keratinocytes.